Study of the Degradation in a Unitized Regenerative Fuel Cell

The study details out the various causes of ageing of a unitized regenerative fuel cell operated in its respective modes, viz. fuel cell and electrolysis mode. The study is carried out when electrolysis mode is carried out at higher temperature of supplied water, i.e., 45 °C. The durability of the cells is examined with respect to the membrane, catalysts used (Pt/C and IrO2) and the bipolar plates. The results analyzed using scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy and inductively coupled plasma technique reveal electrolysis mode to be the primary cause of URFC ageing. Furthermore, oxidation base of the catalyst, i.e., carbon leading to the catalyst agglomeration and its further loss over time is primary result of the high temperature electrolysis. Results also reveal the electrode getting delaminated from the solid electrolyte, i.e., membrane. The surfaces of bipolar plates are observed to have been oxidized.