Performance of Stainless-Steel Bipolar Plates (SS-BPPs) in Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Water Electrolyser (PEMWE): A Comprehensive Review

Abstract

Bipolar Plates (BPPs) play a critical role in Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Water Electrolysers (PEMWEs) for effective hydrogen generation. The performance and longevity of the system can be considerably impacted by choosing the suitable material for these components. Polymer electrolyte membrane water electrolysis technology relies on cost-effective and corrosion-resistant BPPs. Tantalum, niobium, and titanium are low-cost, easy-to-machine materials that have good electrical and thermal conductivity; however, they exhibit low corrosion resistance. Noble metal and metal nitride coatings are usually investigated to minimize corrosion and interfacial contact resistance. Because of its performance-to-cost ratio, Stainless Steel (SS) based materials are among the most popular materials for BPP development. This study recommends material and operating parameters to improve PEMWE systems for sustainable hydrogen production’s efficiency, durability, and economic viability.