The component diagnostics and characterization thrust is a cross-cutting activity that will support all of the other thrust areas by providing tools and expertise for characterizing the performance and durability of components and materials.
Component Thrusts
3Ionomers, Gas Diffusion Layers, Bipolar Plates, & Interfaces
Cross-Cutting Thrusts
6Component Characterization & Diagnostics
Research Focus
Comprehensive Materials Benchmarking
FC-PAD's materials benchmarking activities include:
- Characterizing component structure, chemistry, and composition before and after durability testing
- Developing a systematic approach to understand the effects of testing variables and protocols on a material's stability and performance at the sub-Å to mm level.
Durability and Performance Characterization
FC-PAD's durability and performance characterization activities include:
- Coordinating durability and performance characterization across all six thrusts
- Advanced electron microscopy (Oak Ridge National Laboratory)
- Neutron and X-ray studies (Argonne National Laboratory, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, National Institute of Standards and Technology)
- Component diagnostics (Los Alamos National Laboratory, National Renewable Energy Laboratory)
- Providing experimental input and validation of durability models/simulations.
Development of New Techniques, Protocols, and Capabilities
FC-PAD's development of new techniques, protocols, and capabilities includes:
- Targeting characterization toward specific fuel cell materials and components and test protocols
- Performing operando studies and developing unique tools
Participating Labs
These national laboratories will conduct the foundational technical work in the component diagnostics and characterization thrust area:
Contact
Karren More
Component Diagnostics and Characterization Thrust Coordinator
Oak Ridge National Laboratory
[email protected]