Advancements in Polymer Coatings on Enhanced Electric Conductivity of Metallic Bipolar Plates for PEMFC application

Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells (PEMFCs) hold immense promise as a clean and efficient energy technology. At the core of these fuel cells, metallic bipolar plates (BPs) play a critical role in facilitating efficient electron and ion transfer, thus profoundly impacting the overall performance of the system. This review article offers a comprehensive analysis of recent innovations in polymer coatings tailored to enhance the electric conductivity of metallic BPs within PEMFC applications. The abstract begins by highlighting the growing importance of PEMFCs in the transition to sustainable energy solutions, characterized by their high energy efficiency and environmental friendliness. It underscores the pivotal role played by metallic BPs in optimizing electrical conduction and PEMFC efficiency. The review delves into the latest advancements in the field of polymer coatings, encompassing various strategies and materials employed to enhance the electric conductivity of metallic BPs. These innovations include conductive polymers, and diverse coating techniques, each offering unique advantages and challenges. Their applicability in different operating conditions of PEMFCs is assessed, providing a comprehensive understanding of their potential. Furthermore, the review underscores the critical significance of electric conductivity in improving the overall efficiency of PEMFCs.