Dual membrane fuel cell -impedance approach for proof of concept
Résumé
The dual membrane fuel cell (DMFC) is an innovative SOFC architecture in which an oxygen compartment (cathode and oxide ion conducting electrolyte) is combined with a hydrogen compartment (anode and proton conducting electrolyte) through a porous mixed conducting central membrane (CM) where the two types of ions react and produce water which is evacuated through the pores. This concept is proved on a model cell via sets of investigations based on D.C. testing and Impedance Spectroscopy. For optimization of the three DMFC compartments (oxygen, hydrogen and CM) with regard to materials and technological conditions for the deposition of the functional layers, impedance studies were carried out on symmetrical half cells. Special attention was given to some new experiments elucidating the processes of water formation and propagation through the central membrane.