The performance of proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) is closely related to the preparation process of the membrane electrode assemblies (MEAs). The direct membrane deposition approach can achieve excellent interfacial connection between functional layer, as well as simplifying the MEA manufacturing process. Nevertheless, it has been recognized that for this approach, the permeation of the electrolyte solution into the catalyst layer is a challenge, and it is associated with the deposition method. In this study, three MEAs are prepared by spraying, blade coating, and a combination of the two. The effect of the electrolyte solution deposition methods on the properties of the MEAs is analyzed. The MEA prepared using the combination of spraying and blade coating delivers the highest performance of up to 0.618 W cm⁻² (80°C with H₂/air conditions at normal pressure). In this method, the spraying layer can alleviate the negative effect of cracks on the gas diffusion electrode surface, and the blade-coating layer can improve the membrane uniformity. The MEA prepared by this method exhibits excellent cell performance compared to the traditional catalyst coated membrane type MEA, particularly in low-humidity conditions. This work provides guidance for the preparation of high-performance MEAs for PEMFCs.

中文翻译：

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膜沉积方法对膜电极组件性能的影响

质子交换膜燃料电池（PEMFCs）的性能与膜电极组件（MEAs）的制备过程密切相关。直接膜沉积方法可以在功能层之间实现良好的界面连接，并简化 MEA 制造过程。然而，人们已经认识到，对于这种方法，电解质溶液渗透到催化剂层中是一个挑战，它与沉积方法有关。在这项研究中，通过喷涂、刮涂以及两者的组合制备了三种 MEA。分析了电解质溶液沉积方法对 MEA 性能的影响。使用喷涂和刮刀涂层组合制备的 MEA 可提供高达 0.618 W cm ^{−2的最高性能}（80°C，H ₂ /常压空气条件）。该方法中，喷涂层可以减轻气体扩散电极表面裂纹的负面影响，刮刀涂层可以提高膜的均匀性。与传统的催化剂涂层膜型 MEA 相比，通过这种方法制备的 MEA 表现出优异的电池性能，特别是在低湿度条件下。这项工作为 PEMFC 的高性能 MEA 的制备提供了指导。