Abstract: A method for manufacturing a membrane assembly for a fuel cell. To overcome a problem of chemical degradation at an edge of the membrane, the method comprises the following steps: positioning a first decal layer, which is made of the same material as a first catalyst layer, on a first side of the membrane, positioning a second decal layer, which is made of the same material as a second catalyst layer, on a second side of the membrane, pressing a compression pad, which is positioned on the first decal layer with the first decal layer and the second decal layer fully overlapping the compression pad, and the second decal layer against each other with the first decal layer and the membrane positioned in-between, whereby pressure on the first and the second decal layer is applied only in an area covered by the compression pad.

Abstract: A method for manufacturing a membrane assembly for a fuel cell. To overcome a problem of chemical degradation at an edge of the membrane, the method comprises the following steps: positioning a first decal layer, which is made of the same material as a first catalyst layer, on a first side of the membrane, positioning a second decal layer, which is made of the same material as a second catalyst layer, on a second side of the membrane, pressing a compression pad, which is positioned on the first decal layer with the first decal layer and the second decal layer fully overlapping the compression pad, and the second decal layer against each other with the first decal layer and the membrane positioned in-between, whereby pressure on the first and the second decal layer is applied only in an area covered by the compression pad.

Abstract: Ruthenium or a Ruthenium compound is applied to an anode structure according to a predetermined pattern, with only part of the anode active area containing Ru. The parts of the MEA that do not contain Ru are not expected to suffer degradation from Ru cross-over, so that overall degradation of the cell will be diminished. Having less precious metals will also translate into less cost.

Abstract: To reduce degradation of a solid polymer fuel cell during startup and shutdown, a selectively conducting component is incorporated in electrical series with the anode components in the fuel cell. The component is characterized by a low electrical resistance in the presence of hydrogen or fuel and a high resistance in the presence of air. High cathode potentials can be prevented by integrating such a component into the fuel cell. A suitable selectively conducting component can comprise a layer of selectively conducting material, such as a metal oxide.

Abstract: The present invention is related to methods of making membrane electrode assembly components. The methods include transferring a catalyst layer to a polymer electrolyte membrane or a gas diffusion layer. Methods of making membrane electrode assemblies with these components are also disclosed.

Abstract: Ruthenium or a Ruthenium compound is applied to an anode structure according to a predetermined pattern, with only part of the anode active area containing Ru. The parts of the MEA that do not contain Ru are not expected to suffer degradation from Ru cross-over, so that overall degradation of the cell will be diminished. Having less precious metals will also translate into less cost.

Abstract: The present invention is related to methods of making membrane electrode assembly components. The methods include transferring a catalyst layer to a polymer electrolyte membrane or a gas diffusion layer. Methods of making membrane electrode assemblies with these components are also disclosed.