Strategy for Reducing PEM Fuel Cell Component Costs to Enable Commercialization

One of the leading challenges for the commercialization of fuel cells in both transportation and stationary applications is the ability to meet market cost requirements at low production volumes.  It has been shown that component costs can reach market requirements at high volumes, but the cost/volume dilemma needs to be broken to bridge the gap between today’s low volume production and future high volume production.

 

UTC Power has been working to reduce the cost of high value repeat components (bipolar plates, membrane electrode assemblies, and seals) in PEM fuel cells stacks for transportation and back-up power applications.  Developments in material selection, manufacturing processes and supply chain strategies have led to lower cost components that balance performance and durability requirements with reduced cost.

 

A presentation was given at the 2006 Fuel Cell Seminar which focused on progress made in reducing the cost of the catalyst coated membrane for the UTC Power PureCell® Model 5 backup power unit.  This presentation will look at progress made with this product and will expand the scope of components and applications where cost reduction improvements are being made.  Specific emphasis will be made on progress toward DOE cost targets and strategies for closing the gap using a combination of supply chain and technology development approaches.