A review of automotive proton exchange membrane fuel cell degradation under start-stop operating condition

The lifetime of the proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) is the main issue restricting its commercialization. During real vehicular applications, the fuel cell engine mainly experiences four dynamic conditions: load changing, start-stop, idling, and high power. Since the start-stop condition has a great impact on the lifetime of fuel cells, it is necessary to fully understand the degradation mechanism of PEMFC under this condition. This paper discusses the background and progresses in related research, analyses the gas distribution process inside the fuel cells during start-stop, and summarises the main mechanism and factors that lead to the degradation. Then, solutions in terms of material improvement and system control are listed. This review can provide a basis for solving the degradation problem in PEMFCs and improving the cell lifetime.