Abstract: A fuel cell assembly including a fuel cell stack having a first stack end and a second stack end, a first end plate located at the first stack end, and a second end plate located at the second stack end. The fuel cell stack being interposed between the first end plate and the second end plate. The fuel cell assembly including a compliant assembly extending from a first end to a second end located opposite the first end. The compliant assembly is configured to anchor together the fuel cell stack, the first end plate, and the second end plate. The compliant assembly include a rod extending from a first rod end to a second rod end. The compliant assembly also includes a connector body secured to the rod at or proximate the first rod end and an anchoring mechanism secured to the connector body.

Abstract: A method of manufacturing a porous structure for a fuel cell is disclosed. The method includes providing the porous structure, and processing the porous structure to selectively produce a non-porous region on the porous structure. In one example, the non-porous region is provided at the perimeter of the porous structure, an edge of an internal manifold and/or a surface or recess that supports a seal or gasket. The non-porous region has a porosity that is less than the porosity of the porous structure. The non-porous region prevents undesired leakage of fluid from the porous structure and prevents migration of adhesive associated with the seals.

Abstract: An exemplary method of applying a seal to a fuel cell component includes providing a release layer on one side of a seal. The release layer has reinforcing fibers. Another side of the seal is placed against a selected portion of the fuel cell component. The seal, release layer and fuel cell component are heated. The release layer is then removed after the seal is secured to the fuel cell component.

Abstract: An example method of securing a bond film to a fuel cell component includes positioning the bond film adjacent the fuel cell component and melting the bond film using thermal energy from an injection molded seal.

Abstract: An exemplary method of applying a seal to a fuel cell component includes providing a release layer on one side of a seal. The release layer has reinforcing fibers. Another side of the seal is placed against a selected portion of the fuel cell component. The seal, release layer and fuel cell component are heated. The release layer is then removed after the seal is secured to the fuel cell component.

Abstract: An example method of securing a bond film to a fuel cell component includes positioning the bond film adjacent the fuel cell component and melting the bond film using thermal energy from an injection molded seal.

Abstract: An exemplary method of applying a seal to a fuel cell component includes providing a release layer on one side of a seal. The release layer has reinforcing fibers. Another side of the seal is placed against a selected portion of the fuel cell component. The seal, release layer and fuel cell component are heated. The release layer is then removed after the seal is secured to the fuel cell component.

Abstract: A method of manufacturing a porous structure for a fuel cell is disclosed. The method includes providing the porous structure, and processing the porous structure to selectively produce a non-porous region on the porous structure. In one example, the non-porous region is provided at the perimeter of the porous structure, an edge of an internal manifold and/or a surface or recess that supports a seal or gasket. The non-porous region has a porosity that is less than the porosity of the porous structure. The non-porous region prevents undesired leakage of fluid from the porous structure and prevents migration of adhesive associated with the seals.