📋 Workflow
Full workflow, products add-to-cart directly1
Prepare catalyst ink
1 hUltrasonicate Pt/C catalyst, ionomer, and solvent into a uniform ink.
💡 Tip Ice-bath sonication prevents agglomeration
🧪 Materials for this step (click to shop by spec/brand)
2
Coat MEA
1 hSpray or doctor-blade the ink onto both sides of the proton membrane.
💡 Tip Control Pt loading and uniformity
⚠️ Caution Avoid membrane warping
🧪 Materials for this step (click to shop by spec/brand)
3
Hot-press
30 minHot-press at controlled temperature/pressure to bond the layers.
💡 Tip Use polyimide film to prevent contamination
⚠️ Caution Excess temperature degrades the membrane
🧪 Materials for this step (click to shop by spec/brand)
4
Stack assembly
1 hSandwich the MEA between bipolar plates and gaskets, then clamp with end plates.
💡 Tip Uniform torque ensures sealing
⚠️ Caution Excess torque crushes the MEA
🧪 Materials for this step (click to shop by spec/brand)
5
Activate & polarization test
HoursSupply H₂ and air, activate, then record polarization and power density.
💡 Tip Activate at low current before evaluation
⚠️ Caution H₂ leak is a fire/explosion hazard
🧪 Materials for this step (click to shop by spec/brand)
⚠️ 5 Common Beginner Mistakes
- ① Catalyst agglomeration lowers activity
- ② Uneven Pt loading hurts performance
- ③ Overheating damages the membrane
- ④ Wrong torque leaks or crushes
- ⑤ Poor humidification affects performance
❓ FAQ
+Low open-circuit voltage?
Likely gas crossover or poor sealing.
+Sudden power drop?
Check flooding, dry-out, and membrane state.
+How much catalyst?
Typically 0.2–0.4 mg/cm² Pt per side.