A study of the internal humidification of an integrated PEMFC stack

An integrated proton exchange membrane fuel–cell (PEMFC) system has been developed with an internal humidifier within the stack. Research is concentrated on selecting a membrane with low cost and good water permeability because, to date, high-cost membranes (e.g., as Nafion) have been used. The gas and water permeability of several membranes were measured. A low-cost ultra filtration (UF) membrane shows better characteristics for the internal humidifier and cell performance than the others. Also, saturated water vapour permeating through the UF membrane can be supplied at the stack from the internal humidifier. The internal humidifier using UF membrane is thought to be a satisfactory humidifier for a PEMPC.