Applications of hydrofluoride ceramic membranes for advanced fuel cell technology

New types of materials, hydrofluoride-alumina ceramic composites containing one hydride component, CaH₂, have been studied for fuel cell applications. Excellent fuel cell performances were achieved for a peak power density of 180 mW cm^-2 at 300 mA cm^-2, and a short-circuit current density near 1000 mA cm^-2. In fuel cell measurements the conductivity and ionic transport properties of the hydrofluoride-based electrolytes have also been investigated. During fuel cell operation, water was often observed at the cathode (air side), indicating that proton conduction occurs in these electrolyte materials. The experiments show an interesting chance for the future development of innovative fuel cell technology for commercialization.