The PRINT’CELL project aims to simplify the manufacturing process of PEMFC MEAs and to enhance their performance and durability by improving fluidic and electronic management. To achieve this, a new fluidic and electronic management component, directly printed onto the active layers, will be developed. This component will consist of a porous structure with controlled and optimized porosity and hydrophobicity, specifically tailored for both the anode and the cathode. This innovation would remove the need for conventional GDLs, simplifying the MEA architecture and manufacturing process.
A 2D modeling study (Europium) will be conducted to identify the most efficient porous structures. These structures will then be printed onto active layers and characterized electrochemically, structurally, and physicochemically. The targeted proof of concept corresponds to a TRL 3. Publications and patents are expected as project outcomes.