Abstract: The invention provides apparatuses and associated methods of manufacture for fuel cell systems designed for modular application. As an example, a fuel cell system is provided that includes an enclosure housing a fuel cell stack, a power conditioning circuit, and a control circuit. The power conditioning circuit has a first input connector electrically coupled to the fuel cell stack. The power conditioning circuit is adapted to convert a direct current flow from the fuel cell stack to a conditioned alternating current flow having a predetermined voltage (e.g., 120 volts). The conditioned current flow is provided to an outlet connector of the power conditioning circuit located along a first portion of the enclosure. The power conditioning circuit further includes a second input connector located along a second portion of the enclosure. The second input connector is adapted to receive an external current flow.

Abstract: The invention provides an anode gas diffusion layer for a fuel cell and methods for preparation and use thereof. In particular, a hydrophilic anode gas diffusion layer promotes water transfer through the fuel cell. As an example, in one aspect, the invention provides a fuel cell system, including a fuel cell with an anode gas diffusion layer. The anode gas diffusion layer has a contact angle with water less than 140° (e.g., in some cases less than 120° or less than 100°). In another aspect, the invention provides a gas diffusion layer for a hydrogen electrode of a PEM fuel cell that includes a carbon fiber media having a water contact angle of less than 140°.

Abstract: The invention provides apparatuses and associated methods of manufacture for fuel cell systems designed for modular application. As an example, a fuel cell system is provided that includes an enclosure housing a fuel cell stack, a power conditioning circuit, and a control circuit. The power conditioning circuit has a first input connector electrically coupled to the fuel cell stack. The power conditioning circuit is adapted to convert a direct current flow from the fuel cell stack to a conditioned alternating current flow having a predetermined voltage (e.g., 120 volts). The conditioned current flow is provided to an outlet connector of the power conditioning circuit located along a first portion of the enclosure. The power conditioning circuit further includes a second input connector located along a second portion of the enclosure. The second input connector is adapted to receive an external current flow.

Abstract: The invention provides an anode gas diffusion layer for a fuel cell and methods for preparation and use thereof. In particular, a hydrophilic anode gas diffusion layer promotes water transfer through the fuel cell. As an example, in one aspect, the invention provides a fuel cell system, including a fuel cell with an anode gas diffusion layer. The anode gas diffusion layer has a contact angle with water less than 140° (e.g., in some cases less than 120° or less than 100°). In another aspect, the invention provides a gas diffusion layer for a hydrogen electrode of a PEM fuel cell that includes a carbon fiber media having a water contact angle of less than 140°.

Abstract: A bridge piece for a fuel cell fluid flow plate having a face and a fluid opening for receiving a fluid, at least one flow channel in the face for distributing a fluid in a fuel cell, and a first groove defined within the face, the groove adapted to receive a sealing member, includes a body having a first surface and a second surface, the first surface having at least one channel for fluidly connecting the fluid opening to the at least one flow channel. The second surface has a second groove defined therein. The second groove is adapted to receive the sealing member.