Gas Diffusion Layers

Gas Diffusion Layers (GDL) are key components in various types of fuel cells, including Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM), Direct Methanol (DMFC) and Phosphoric Acid (PAFC) stacks as well as in other electrochemical devices such as electrolyzers. In fuel cells, this thin, porous sheet must provide high electrical and thermal conductivity and chemical / corrosion resistance, in addition to controlling the proper flow of reactant gases (hydrogen and air) and managing the water transport out of the membrane electrode assembly (MEA). This layer must also have controlled compressibility to support the external forces from the assembly, and not deform into the bi-component plate channels to restrict flow. Other uses require different criteria, for example, electrolyzers require thicker, higher density porous plates, while humidifiers have most of the same requirements as fuel cell stacks, but the GDLs do not need to be electrically conductive. The GDL serves as a connection bridge between the MEA and graphite plate.

The main functions of GDL include the following:

• A gas diffused pathway from flow channels to the catalyst layer
• Help removes by-produced water outside of the catalyst layer and prevent flooding
• Keep some water on surface for conductivity through the membrane
• Heat transfer during cell operation
• Helps provide enough mechanical strength to hold the MEA from extension caused by water absorbency

What is the purpose of a Hydrophobic Treatment (AKA Wet Proofing)?

A hydrophobic treatment to GDL enables improved water transport. In PEM fuel cells, specifically water retention can result in lower power generation. These GDLs are treated with Teflon in order to make the material hydrophobic and improve water transport.

What is the purpose of a Micro-porous Layer (MPL)?

The purpose of the carbon Microporous Layer (MPL) is to minimize the contact resistance between the GDL and catalyst layer, limit the loss of catalyst to the GDL interior and help to improve water management as it provides effective water transport. MPL treatment is especially recommended for use with CCM (Catalyst Coated Membrane).

The Fuel Cell Store proudly carries the largest selection of carbon based Gas Diffusion Layers (GDL) in the world!  If you know of a Gas Diffusion Layer we do not carry please contact us and let us know!


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CT GDL210S

CT GDL210S

CT GDL210S is a carbon paper with a Microporous Layer (MPL). It has a total thickness of 210 um (mic..

$109.00

CT GDL120S

CT GDL120S

CT GDL120S is a carbon paper with a Microporous Layer (MPL). It has a total thickness of 120 um (mic..

$211.00

CT GDL280

CT GDL280

CT GDL280 is a carbon paper with a Microporous Layer (MPL) and with PTFE. It has a total thickness o..

$61.00

CT GDS180SHT

CT GDS180SHT

CT GDS180SHT is a carbon paper without a Microporous Layer (MPL) and without PTFE. It has a total th..

$80.00

CT GDS250

CT GDS250

CT GDS250 is a carbon paper without a Microporous Layer (MPL) and without PTFE. It has a total thick..

$55.00

CT GF065 Graphite Felt

CT GF065 Graphite Felt

CT GF065 is a graphite felt and a great electrode for Vanadium Redox Flow Batteries. It has a total ..

$104.00

CT GF020 Graphite Felt

CT GF020 Graphite Felt

CT GF020 is a graphite felt and is a great electrode for Vanadium Redox Flow Batteries (VRBs). It ha..

$69.00

CT GF030 Graphite Felt

CT GF030 Graphite Felt

CT GF030 is a graphite felt and is a great electrode for Vanadium Redox Flow Batteries (VRBs). It ha..

$81.00

AvCarb C100 Soft Carbon Battery Felt

AvCarb C100 Soft Carbon Battery Felt

Please note that C100 Soft Carbon Battery Felt has been discontinued by AvCarb and we are completely..

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AvCarb C200 Soft Carbon Battery Felt

AvCarb C200 Soft Carbon Battery Felt

Please note that C200 Soft Carbon Battery Felt has been discontinued by AvCarb as of February 2020 a..

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AvCarb EP55

AvCarb EP55

This product has been discontinued and we do not have any remaining stock. AvCarb carbon fiber p..

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AvCarb EP55T

AvCarb EP55T

AvCarb carbon fiber papers consist of high purity carbon fibers bonded together using a porous carbo..

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AvCarb G100 Soft Graphite Battery Felt

AvCarb G100 Soft Graphite Battery Felt

This product has been discontinued and this web page is only active for previous customers who need ..

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AvCarb G200 Soft Graphite Battery Felt

AvCarb G200 Soft Graphite Battery Felt

This product has been discontinued. This web page is only active for previous customers who need..

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AvCarb G300A Soft Graphite Battery Felt

AvCarb G300A Soft Graphite Battery Felt

This material is no longer available and we are completely out of stock. Please see AvCarb G280..

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