A review on ions induced contamination of polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells, poisoning mechanisms and mitigation approaches

Impurities diminish the performance of PEM fuel cells significantly. Impurities are either introduced into the cell via feedstock or are generated within the cell during operation. The presence of ions like Cl− remarkably affects the cell performance. For example, 1 ppm chloride ion causes a loss of 150 mV at 0.75 A cm−2[1]. This paper reviews the effects of ions on the cell performance, and discusses the poisoning mechanisms, mitigation approaches, and future research perspectives. Understanding the effects of ions on the cell performance and poisoning mechanisms enable taking appropriate paths towards more efficient and cost-effective application of PEM fuel cells.

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