Effect of ammonia as potential fuel impurity on proton exchange membrane fuel cell performance

Effects of NH3 on proton exchange membrane fuel cell performance are reported. Traces of NH3 in the anode feedstream cause a decrease in cell current. The extent of the effect depends on NH3 concentration and time of exposure of the anode to NH3. High trace levels and long time of exposure result in severe and irreversible disability. We discuss possible mechanisms by which NH3 affects cell performance. A method for trapping ammonia from contaminated fuel streams using a H+ form ion exchange resin is presented. (C) 2002 The Electrochemical Society.