Evaluation of water distribution in a small operating fuel cell using neutron color image intensifier

Yasuda, Ryo; Nitto, Koichi*; Konagai, Chikara*; Shiozawa, Masahiro*; Takenaka, Nobuyuki*; Asano, Hitoshi*; Murakawa, Hideki*; Sugimoto, Katsumi*; Nojima, Takehiro; Hayashida, Hirotoshi; Iikura, Hiroshi  ; Sakai, Takuro; Matsubayashi, Masahito  

Neutron radiography is one of useful tools to visualize water behavior in fuel cells under operation. In order to observe the detailed information about the water distribution in MEA and GDL in fuel cells, a high spatial resolution and high sensitivity neutron imaging system are required. We developed an imaging system using the neutron color imaging intensifier and continuously observed water distribution in operating a fuel cell. By using the system, a small type fuel cell under operation was continuously observed at the TNRF in every 20 sec. In the results, the water area was appeared from GDL and MEA, and expanded to the channel of the cathode side. On the other hand, voltage was gradually reduced with the operation time, and steeply dropped. It is considered that voltage drop was caused by blockage of gas flow due to the piling up water in the channel of the cathode side.