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Investigation of the Structural Characteristics of the Gas Diffusion Layer Using Micro-X-Ray Computed Tomography

Author

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  • Qitong Shi

    (School of Electrical Engineering, Tongling University, Tongling 244061, China)

  • Cong Feng

    (College of Materials Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 201804, China)

  • Bing Li

    (School of Automotive Studies, Tongji University, Shanghai 201804, China)

  • Pingwen Ming

    (School of Automotive Studies, Tongji University, Shanghai 201804, China)

Abstract

Due to its low stiffness, the gas diffusion layer (GDL) exhibits significant deformation under a compression service condition, thereby exerting a nonlinear and strong coupling influence on fuel cells’ performance. Therefore, it is of great practical significance to study the structural characteristics evolution of GDLs. The microstructure of the GDLs was obtained using micro-X-ray computed tomography in this study, and their structural properties were analyzed comprehensively and quantitatively. The morphology of GDLs exhibited significant variations across manufacturers due to disparities in the materials and manufacturing processes. The distribution of the pore equivalent diameter and sphericity in GDLs conformed to a normal distribution, with irregular shapes. The fiber length distribution in the unit followed a Gamma distribution, showing a random and uneven distribution in the XY plane. When compressed, the average fiber length was reduced, and a substantial increase in isolated pores was observed. However, the quantity of long fibers and connected and isolated pores decreased after acidification treatment.

Suggested Citation

  • Qitong Shi & Cong Feng & Bing Li & Pingwen Ming, 2025. "Investigation of the Structural Characteristics of the Gas Diffusion Layer Using Micro-X-Ray Computed Tomography," Energies, MDPI, vol. 18(2), pages 1-12, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jeners:v:18:y:2025:i:2:p:381-:d:1569027
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Kui Jiao & Jin Xuan & Qing Du & Zhiming Bao & Biao Xie & Bowen Wang & Yan Zhao & Linhao Fan & Huizhi Wang & Zhongjun Hou & Sen Huo & Nigel P. Brandon & Yan Yin & Michael D. Guiver, 2021. "Designing the next generation of proton-exchange membrane fuel cells," Nature, Nature, vol. 595(7867), pages 361-369, July.
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