Research Overview
Faculty Research
The objective of Hutapea Group fuel cell research is to study failure mechanisms of PEM fuel cells under vibration (as in typical automotive operating conditions). A critical aspect of their current research is fundamental understanding of the long-term stability of the catalyst. PEM fuel cells use carbon supported platinum (Pt) catalyst in their electrodes to promote the chemical reactions that generate electrical energy. These particle growth mechanisms and their rates may vary as a function of electrode potential, cell voltage cycling conditions, current density, particle size and shape, the hydration state of the membrane, and the operating conditions (as in this case, vibration).
Technical Capabilities
Recent Publications
Effect of Mechanical Vibrations on Platinum Growth in PEM Fuel Cells.
G. Diloyan, M. Sobel, K. Das, P. Hutapea.
Journal of Power Sources, 214, pp. 59-67, 2012. (paper)
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