(385ai) 2D Germanium Coatings for Improved PEM Durability in Hydrogen Fuel Cells.

My research interests are focused on the development of materials and technologies for energy systems, hydrogen technologies, and electrochemical devices including fuel cells and batteries. A significant aspect of my work involves exploring strategies to overcome key challenges in proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs), including fuel crossover and oxygen reduction reaction catalysts, aiming to improve their efficiency, durability and overall performance. Through these efforts, I hope to advance clean energy technologies and promote their real-world implementation.

Poster Abstract

Hydrogen proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) have emerged as a promising sustainable energy technology offering low emissions and high fuel efficiency. However, one of the challenges limiting their use is fuel crossover, which leads to decreased fuel efficiency and durability of the fuel cell. Two-dimensional germanane (GeH) was investigated as a diffusion barrier to reduce hydrogen crossover, while maintaining proton conductivity. GeH coatings with thicknesses of 40 nm, 70 nm, and 120 nm were spray-coated onto Nafion NR211 membranes and tested in PEMFCs. The GeH coatings decreased hydrogen crossover by up to 21% while causing a minor reduction in proton conductivity (up to 12%). Additionally, GeH-coated membranes exhibited significantly better durability in accelerated stress tests compared to bare NR211 membranes.