Development of Hydrogen Sensor for Fuel Cell Applications

For effective operation of PEFC (Proton Exchange Fuel Cell), it is desired to measure hydrogen concentration in anode side gas stream. We have developed a linear Hydrogen Sensor, which comprises a pair of Pt supported carbon electrodes and a proton exchange membrane (PEM). The sensor has limited current sensing characteristics. The concentration of hydrogen supplied from the gas diffusing area at the anode side is measured by detecting the current of the selective hydrogen pumping. The carbon electrode deterioration occurred when little hydrogen existed in the sensing area. By controlling an applying voltage to the PEM electrodes when the pumping current is lowered to a certain limit, this issue has been solved; no deterioration occurred even after 2500 hours continuous operation under ambient atmospheric conditions.

This sensor is suitable for anode side gas purge control of automotive hydrogen FC and for power management of reformed gas FC for home co-generation.