Metallic bipolar plates for PEM fuel cells

Metallic bipolar plates for Polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) fuel cells with and without coatings were tested in single cell tests. Current–voltage curves, lifetime curves and the contamination with metal ions were measured. Additionally the surface of the plates was analyzed by several methods. So far the investigations revealed that principally stainless steel covered with a thin coating is suitable as material for bipolar plates in PEM fuel cells. Cell performance is the same as in PEM fuel cells with graphite bipolar plates. Concerning the cost it has to be considered that not only the material itself but also the coating process has to be evaluated.