Keynote: Recent Advances in Membrane Electrode Assemblies for Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells and Water Electrolyzers: Materials Innovation and Pathways Toward Durable and Scalable Hydrogen Technologies

Shahgaldi, Samaneh

Abstract

Proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cells (PEMFCs) and PEM water electrolyzers (PEMWEs) are widely recognized as key enabling technologies for the development of a sustainable hydrogen economy. PEMFCs efficiently convert hydrogen into electricity with high power density and low emissions, whereas PEMWEs enable the production of high-purity green hydrogen using renewable electricity. Together, these technologies form a highly complementary platform for future integrated clean energy systems. Despite major technological advancements, widespread commercialization remains constrained by challenges associated with durability, high capital cost, interfacial transport losses, and scalable manufacturing. At the core of both systems lies the membrane electrode assembly (MEA), which governs electrochemical activity, transport phenomena, efficiency, and long-term operational stability. This presentation provides a comparative overview of PEMFC and PEMWE technologies, with particular emphasis on recent advances in MEA materials, component engineering, and interface optimization. The discussion highlights both the fundamental similarities and the distinct operational requirements of PEMFC and PEMWE architecture, including membranes, catalyst layers, gas diffusion layers (GDLs)/porous transport layers (PTLs), bipolar plates, and electrode interfaces under different electrochemical environments. Special attention is given to the influence of operating conditions on degradation mechanisms, water and thermal management, catalyst utilization, and mass and charge transport behavior. The presentation concludes with perspectives on future research directions and technological opportunities for next-generation PEM electrochemical systems. Emphasis is placed on the importance of integrated MEA engineering and multi-scale materials design in achieving durable, high-performance, and economically viable hydrogen production and energy conversion technologies for large-scale deployment.

Menu

Keynote: Recent Advances in Membrane Electrode Assemblies for Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells and Water Electrolyzers: Materials Innovation and Pathways Toward Durable and Scalable Hydrogen Technologies

Abstract