Spatially resolved characterization of PEFCs using simultaneously neutron radiography and locally resolved impedance spectroscopy

A method for performing neutron radiography and locally resolved impedance spectroscopy simultaneously in situ in an operating polymer electrolyte fuel cell (PEFC) is presented. The new method provides concurrently spatially resolved information about the local cell performance, the locally limiting processes, and the liquid water distribution. Information about the impact of water on cell performance and limiting processes can be gained in situ on a local scale in an operating PEFC. The method was applied to a PEFC operated on pure H2/O2 in co-flow mode under low humidity operating conditions. The results show that in co-flow mode strong flooding and severe drying can occur at the very same time in different sections of a PEFC.