A review on process design and bilayer electrolyte materials of bipolar membrane fuel cell

Abstract

A bipolar membrane fuel cell (BPMFC) is a novel hydrogen/oxygen (H2/O2) fuel cell consisting of two-layer membranes. The design of BPMFC is still in an early stage, and it requires profound research to explore its functions, working operations, and improve its performance. This review article systematically described the previous manipulations made in developing BPMFC in terms of process design and electrolyte materials. These two criteria are the most important in the design of BPMFC. Several modifications and manipulations were made, and the improvements observed over the years are also presented in this study in terms of electrochemical performance and properties. For instance, modifications and rearrangements of BPMFC components, new electrolyte materials, and different membrane layer integration techniques have been proposed. Different effects on BPMFC properties and performance were discovered when modifications were made. Some of the BPMFC managed to perform without any issues, whereas some encountered water management issues, lack of cell stability, and degradation of power output. To date, the optimal reported power density of the BPMFC was about 327 mW/cm2 and it managed to operate successfully for 40 h without showing any signs of degradation. In this regard, the commercialization of BPMFC for fuel cell performance is recommended as it displays a high potential for improving electrochemical cell performance and ensuring high cell durability.