Water vapor exchange system using a hydrophilic microporous layer coated gas diffusion layer to enhance performance of polymer electrolyte fuel cells without cathode humidification

► A water vapor exchange system installed in PEFC was developed to enhance PEFC performance without cathode humidification. ► The hydrophilic MPL coated GDL at the cathode exchange area is effective to promote water transport from the cathode to anode. ► The GDL without the MPL at the anode exchange area is effective to enhance PEFC performance.