Towards understanding the dual membrane fuel cell (IDEAL-Cell) using a metallic central membrane

This work presents results of a measurement setup which was constructed for understanding the performance contributions of the individual compartments and reactions taking place in the patented concept of IDEAL-Cell (described in detail in (1)). By inserting a third measurement point at the central membrane of an ideal cell, it was possible to measure the cell in three different modes corresponding to hydrogen, oxygen compartment and the full cell. Maximum power densities of ∼4, ∼7, 11, and 16 mW/cm 2 at 600, 650, 700, and 750°C in H 2-O 2 atmosphere, respectively, were observed which were similar to the values of proof of concept ideal cell samples tested so far. Moreover in this setup, it was possible to record higher maximum power densities for the hydrogen (proton conducting) compartment which were ∼14, 22, 33*, and ∼38*mW/cm 2 at 600, 650, 700, and 750°C. ©The Electrochemical Society.