Visualization of the water distribution in perforated gas diffusion layers by means of synchrotron X-ray radiography

Perforated gas diffusion layers (GDLs) of polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) were investigated by means of in-situ synchrotron X-ray radiography during operation. We found a strong influence of perforations on the water distribution and transport in the investigated Toray TGP-H-090 GDL. The water occurs mainly around the perforations, while the holes themselves show varying water distributions. Some remain dry, while most of them fill up with liquid water after a certain period or might serve as drainage volume for effective water transport.

► Water transport in perforated gas diffusion layers of polymer electrolyte fuel cells.
► Engineered transport paths in gas diffusion layer by means of laser cutting.
► Water evolution visualized using high resolution synchrotron X-ray radiography.
► Water accumulation in hydrophilic vicinity of perforation holes.
► Strongly varying water transport behavior observed inside and around the holes.