Double FC power density

TOKYO, JAPAN, August 13, 2008. Nissan Motor Co. Ltd has developed a new fuel cell stack with double the power density and 35% cost reduction compared to the previous generation stack.

The new stack’s power output has been increased from 90 kW to 130 kW – enough to power larger vehicles. And the stack size is reduced 25% to 68 L from 90 L.

Nissan achieved the improvements through enhancing the membrane electrode assembly (MEA), cell structure, electrode and stack size.

The conductivity of the electrolyte layer within the MEA, which is where the main chemical reaction occurs, was improved. A more densely-packed cell structure was achieved through the replacement of the carbon separator with a new thin metal separator.

A specific coating applied to the separator contributes to the improve conductivity and prevents chemical corrosion, leading to higher efficiency and durability throughout the stack’s life cycle.

Giving the electrode higher durability has resulted in a 50% reduction in the platinum required, which again brings a significant cost-saving.

Test fleets incorporating the improved fuel cell stacks will be available by the end of the year, Nissan says. The project is part of the Nissan Green Program 2010.

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