Determining Membrane Degradation in Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cells by Effluent Water Analysis

Membrane degradation is a key issue limiting the lifetime of polymer electrolyte fuel cells. Thus, it is essential for the commercialization of fuel cells to prevent the decomposition of the polymer electrolyte. Therefore, a fundamental knowledge of the underlying mechanisms is required. Membrane degradation is often quantified by the emission of fluoride ions, yet polymer fragments can be released with the effluent water as well and cannot be detected by common means, such as the fluoride ion selective electrode. Therefore, effluent water treatment was conducted to allow a quantitative detection.