Gas diffusion layer for fuel cells uses stronger carbon fiber

Toho Tenax has developed a gas diffusion layer (GDL) made of a carbon fiber fabric, designed for use as an electrode component for fuel cells. The new GDL is scheduled for release in September 2010. The new fabric-type GDL offers better flexibility and strength than the commonly used paper-type GDLs, which are carbon fiber sheets impregnated with resin or other materials.

With the new fabric structure, roll-to-roll processing may be performed at high speeds, allowing a reduction in user costs. Furthermore, since resin or such is not needed, water permeability can be further enhanced, permitting higher output of fuel cells.

Likewise, the new product also has lower contact resistance than conventional fabric-type GDLs, attained by making a uniform textile surface utilizing various technologies refined by Toho Tenax, such as spinning, weaving, and carbonizing technologies. With low contact resistance, more improvements in fuel cell performance can be expected.

The new GDL will be available in two thicknesses: 260?m and 320?m. Based on market needs for smaller fuel cells, the development of ultra thin fabrics with thicknesses of 200?m and less is also underway.