RAMMS - A High-Throughput Membrane Measurement System for Fuel Cell Manufacturing

The objective of this work was to develop a high-throughput polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) resistance measurement device to enhance manufacturing quality control (QC). The principal outcome was the Rapid Membrane Measurement System (RAMMS), an automated, off-line instrument that can be used by membrane manufacturers for QC during production and by membrane users for lost acceptance of a critical component of PEM fuel cell systems. Principal components of the RAMMS were a novel humidification and environmental control system; integrated sample chamber, electrode and actuator system; impedance-based membrane resistance measurement instrumentation, and custom software. Testing and evaluation revealed that electrode durability was the most significant technical challenge and performance limitation of the RAMMS. Acceptable durability was unobtainable with any of the platinum deposition methods and post-deposition treatments designed to improve coating adhesion. Porous platinum electrodes exhibited acceptable durability. The prototype unit came close to achieving all performance criteria and specifications.