OptiCold - Assessment of the cold start capability of PEMFC components and development of optimization strategies
Present Research Project

A widespread market launch of fuel cell technology requires guaranteed and proven robustness and operational suitability for both the entire fuel cell system and individual components. Investigations into the cold-start capability and operational suitability of components, particularly in winter months, are often not feasible for SMEs due to a lack of financial and personnel resources. Design rules for the development and improvement of material parameters with regard to the cold-start behavior of PEM fuel cells are therefore of great importance to SMEs in this sector, especially since they could eliminate the need for costly testing and suitability trials.

Building on existing knowledge, this project aims to identify and optimize cold-start-relevant material and testing parameters and derive design rules that will enable PEM fuel cells to meet DOE and EU cold-start requirements and withstand repeated freezing/cold-start cycles without significant damage.

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