Abstract: A fuel cell assembly includes a first flow field plate (FFP), a second FFP, and a membrane electrode assembly (MEA) provided between the first and second FFPs. The MEA includes first and second gas diffusion layers (GDLs) and a membrane provided between an anode catalytic layer and a cathode catalytic layer. A gasket, provided between the first and second flow field plates and relative to a periphery of the MEA, comprises a first surface having a first human perceivable feature associated with the anode catalytic layer and a second surface having a second human perceivable feature associated with the cathode catalytic layer. At least a portion of the gasket comprising the first and second human perceivable features is configured to extend beyond a periphery of the first and second flow field plates.

Abstract: A unitized fuel cell assembly includes a first flow field plate, a second flow field plate, and a membrane electrode assembly (MEA) provided between the first and second flow field plates. A hard stop arrangement, in one configuration, is provided between the first and second flow field plates. The hard stop arrangement is dimensioned to limit compressive forces imparted to the MEA upon establishment of contact between the first and second flow field plates under pressure. A sealing arrangement is provided between the first and second flow field plates and peripheral to the MEA. The unitized fuel cell assembly is configured as a stand-alone fuel cell unit that can be used alone or in a stack of fuel cell units.

Abstract: A unitized fuel cell assembly includes a first flow field plate, a second flow field plate, and a membrane electrode assembly (MEA) provided between the first and second flow field plates. A hard stop arrangement, in one configuration, is provided between the first and second flow field plates. The hard stop arrangement is dimensioned to limit compressive forces imparted to the MEA upon establishment of contact between the first and second flow field plates under pressure. A sealing arrangement is provided between the first and second flow field plates and peripheral to the MEA. The unitized fuel cell assembly is configured as a stand-alone fuel cell unit that can be used alone or in a stack of fuel cell units.