InCET-Initiation of development of cost-effective production technology for fuel cell components

Important results from the project

The InCET project aims to provide initial proof that a cost-effective high-volume production technology for graphite-based bipolar plates for fuel cells is achievable. A lab-scale tool was designed and manufactured in order to process plates composed of graphite and resin binders by compression molding in one shot. Plates with a range of materials combinations and compositions were successfully manufactured; ~ 3 min per plate. Flexural properties and electrical conductivity were measured. Several options showed properties identical to those of a commercial milled graphite BPP.

Expected long term effects

Natural- and expandable graphite, bonded by thermoplastic & thermoset resins, respectively, were manufactured by compression molding in one shot using a lab-scale tool, a process taking ~3 min. The plates with several material options are in the same ranges as a commercial milled graphite BPP for both electric conductivity and flexural properties. A near 100% material utilization was enabled. A next step for manufacturing and testing of a full-size graphite-based bipolar plate with optimized material options is planned.

Approach and implementation

A consortium composed of SSAC, a newly started SME focusing on enabling cost-effective and scalable manufacturing of advanced composite components, and RISE SICOMP, the Nordic region’s leading research institute within polymeric fibre composites with extensive experience in development of materials and processing technology, was built up for the InCET project. Initial proof of a cost-effective high-volume production for graphite-based bipolar plates for fuel cells was achieved. The consortium will move forward to implement the concept for scalable processing and products.