Datwyler is enhancing its support for customers transitioning to hydrogen fuel cell technology through partnerships with global fuel cell producers. They've bolstered their portfolio of sealing materials and production techniques to cover the entire hydrogen value chain, with a specific focus on fuel cell applications. They emphasize the critical role of seals for bipolar plates (BPPs), essential components in fuel cells that generate electricity from stored hydrogen. Through extensive testing, they've determined that composite materials offer the best balance of performance and challenges in mobility applications, being light, cost-effective, easy to process, and chemically resistant.
Effective sealing of BPPs within fuel cells is crucial, requiring materials capable of withstanding exposure to hydrogen, humidified air, and cooling liquid. Datwyler's Technology & Innovation Labs, along with specialist labs across Europe, are rigorously testing materials for performance, focusing on factors like ion contamination. They highlight the significant potential of elastomers in fuel cell applications, citing their ability to meet critical parameters such as mechanical energy absorption and chemical resistance when combined with composite BPPs.