Enhanced low-humidity performance of proton exchange membrane fuel cell by incorporating phosphoric acid-loaded covalent organic framework in anode catalyst layer

Developing self-humidifying membrane electrode assembly (MEA) is of great significance for the practical use proton exchange fuel cell (PEMFC). In this work, a phosphoric acid (PA)-loaded Schiff base networks (SNW)-type covalent organic framework (COF) proposed as anode catalyst layer (CL) additive to enhance PEMFC performance under low humidity conditions. The unique polymer structure and immobilized PA endow COF network with not only excellent water retention capacity but also transfer ability, thus leading superior PEMFC. optimization content, effect relative (RH) operating temperature are investigated by means electrochemical characterization single test. At normal operation 60 °C 38% RH, MEA optimized content (10 wt%) showes maximum power density 582 mW cm?2, which almost 7 times higher than that routine (85 cm?2). Furthermore, preliminary durability test demonstrates potential practice environment.