Characterization Methodology Development for PEM Fuel Cell Bipolar Plate

Metallic Bipolar Plates (BP) offer high Mechanical durability performance and provides an opportunity for light-weighting apart from offering design flexibility due to advanced manufacturing techniques like sheet hydroforming. The corrosion resistance and contact electrical conductivity of Metallic BP plates could further be improved by applying coatings of graphite/graphene/inorganic/organic compounds on surface of metal plates. Numerous metal and coatings systems are being developed with objective of achieving required properties, cost and durability targets. It is of utmost importance to develop suitable methods and techniques for the assessment of key performance indicators of metallic BP Plates. The paper describes detailed techniques such as Raman spectroscopy, Hall measurement, Potentio-dynamic corrosion test, Water contact angle measurement, Electron Microscopy (SEM-EDS) which were utilized for evaluation of commercially available SS 316 coated with carbon based materials for suitability as BP plates for indigenous fuel cell stack development. The investigation was undertaken to evaluate key properties to establish suitability under fuel cell environment. Formability assessment was also performed to evaluate integrity of carbon coating during hydroforming which is required to form transport channel for gas flow and water management. These properties ultimately define performance of BP plates in a fuel cell power stack environment.