New Generation Membrane Electrode Assembly using Novel Nanoporous Carbon Scaffold

Hydrogen fuel cells (HFCs) are clean and efficient energy conversion devices that produce electricity from green hydrogen with zero carbon emissions. Currently, the catalyst layers in HFCs are composed of Pt-decorated carbon powders mixed with an ion conducting polymer (ionomer), leading to uncontrolled distribution of each phase and significant tortuosity due to the complex pores and pathways between particles.
The membrane electrode assembly (MEA) is the core component of a HFC that plays the most critical role in the HFC performance and lifetime. However, there are gaps in the MEA market involving high cost and inadequate performance. Momentum Materials Solutions Corp, an Alberta start-up, recruits a Mitacs M.Sc. student from the University of Calgary to develop a paradigm-shifting MEA technology using proprietary, novel, and ordered nanoporous carbon materials, with the goal being to fill the industry gaps and achieve high significantly improved performance and lifetime.

Faculty Supervisor:

Viola Birss

Student:

Partner:

Momentum Materials Solutions

Discipline:

Physics

Sector:

Manufacturing

University:

University of Calgary

Program: