KEEPEMALIVE aims to establish improved understanding of degradation and failure mechanisms, accelerated stress test protocols, sensitivity matrix and lifetime prediction models for Low Temperature PEMFC to enable a lifetime of 40 000h at realistic operation conditions for stationary systems, in compliance with performance and costs targets.
Main KEEPEMALIVE targets are to establish a robust and efficient methodology to identify & quantify main factors (and interactions) causing degradation/failure when imposed to stressing conditions and to characterize changes in PEMFC materials’ properties and corresponding performance losses using statistical designed experiments.
KEEPEMALIVE uses an integrated, iterative approach, using advanced statistical experiment design and result evaluation. Quantitative data obtained in situ from cell & stack tests under stressing conditions, are complemented by ex situ testing of materials, revealing corresponding changes in properties. Joint efforts of SMEs, energy companies and research community, including links to other related European activities, will contribute to strengthening Europe’s competitiveness in this area.
Funded under 7th FWP (Seventh Framework Programme)
