Hydrogen fuel cells: a game-changer for transport vehicles

Challenges in fuel cell materials: Purity and durability

PEMFCs are gaining traction due to their low operating temperatures, rapid startup times, and efficient electrolyte management. However, the technology faces challenges related to material degradation and impurity leaching.

Material compounds used in PEMFCs can leach ions, decreasing system performance and causing premature failure. Hydrolysis and heat aging in high-temperature, high-humidity environments (up to 110°C and nearly 100% humidity) further contribute to mechanical deterioration. Materials that fail to withstand these conditions lead to part deformation, falling below safety standards and negatively impacting brand reputation.

To address these challenges, OEMs must select materials that provide superior purity, hydrolytic stability, and mechanical strength to maintain the efficiency and reliability of fuel cells over extended lifespans.

Xytron™ PPS: High-purity, high-performance material for PEMFCs

Envalior’s Xytron™, a high-performance polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) compound, is specifically designed to meet the stringent demands of PEMFC components. This advanced material offers the highest purity and mechanical strength on the market, ensuring exceptional performance in fuel cells operating at temperatures up to 120°C.

Key Benefits of Xytron™ include:

• Minimal ion leaching: Ensures system efficiency and long-term reliability.
• Superior hydrolytic and chemical resistance: Prevents degradation under demanding conditions.
• Unmatched durability: Provides exceptional fatigue, creep resistance, and dimensional stability.

Rigorous testing has consistently demonstrated that Xytron outperforms competitive materials such as polyamides (PA6 and PPA) and other PPS compounds. One standout advantage is its minimal water absorption. After 200 hours of testing, Xytron exhibits virtually no increase in mass due to water absorption, whereas PA6 absorbs up to 10% and PPA over 5%. This reduced water absorption significantly lowers the risk of ionic leaching, a common cause of performance degradation in PEMFCs.

Xytron also excels in longevity, maintaining its mechanical strength even after 5,000 hours of hydrolytic and heat aging. In comparison, PA materials show significant deterioration within just 150 hours, and other PPS compounds begin to fail after 1000 hours. These exceptional durability and stability characteristics ensure that Xytron-based components deliver reliable, long-lasting functionality in PEMFCs, ultimately reducing the total cost of ownership for end users.

Comprehensive fuel cell expertise

At Envalior, we leverage advanced research, computer-aided engineering (CAE), and deep application design expertise to maximize Xytron’s performance across various PEMFC components. Our material solutions are tailored to support the development of critical fuel cell parts, including media distribution plates, insulation plates, hydrogen recirculation components, and hydrogen pressure regulation valves.

By enabling manufacturers to standardize materials across multiple components, Xytron helps reduce production costs and streamline the design process. Envalior’s dedicated team provides hands-on support throughout development, ensuring that your fuel cell technology not only meets but exceeds market expectations, delivering superior reliability and efficiency.

As a trusted partner for vehicle, electronics, and electrical manufacturers, Envalior is dedicated to enabling the transition to sustainable transportation. Our Xytron material solutions empower you to produce reliable, eco-friendly fuel cells that meet the demands of today’s market while protecting your bottom line.

Contact us today to discover how Xytron can help you develop cutting-edge fuel cell technology that sets a new standard for sustainability and performance.