New hydrogen fuel cell delivers four times more power, claim Chinese scientists

A team of Chinese scientists has developed a novel proton-exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cell that delivers four times the power output of conventional designs. This advancement has the potential to enhance the practicality of hydrogen systems for vehicular and aerospace applications. This advancement addresses a significant challenge in hydrogen fuel cells, specifically the rate at which protons traverse the catalyst layer responsible for electricity generation. The researchers engineered a novel material interface that facilitates more efficient proton transport within the cell. Li Jie, an assistant professor at Beijing Institute of Technology (BIT) and a co-author of the study, said the new technology enables the “power stack of a fuel cell vehicle can be made smaller and lighter, and the vehicle can get stronger continuous output and a longer driving range.” A faster path for protons PEM fuel cells typically operate at temperatures ranging from 140 to 176 degrees Fahrenheit and convert approximately 50 to 60 percent of hydrogen’s stored energy into electricity. Within the cell, hydrogen molecules release electrons and protons at the anode. Protons migrate across the electrolyte membrane, while electrons travel through an external circuit to generate electricity. At the cathode, protons and electrons combine with oxygen to produce water. The catalyst layer has long presented challenges. Materials such as Nafion can densely surround catalysts at the nanoscale, impeding the rapid transport of protons to reaction sites. The BIT team developed a Brønsted acid-Lewis base interface, providing additional sites for proton transfer. Experimental results demonstrated a tenfold increase in proton diffusion and a 6.5-fold improvement in proton conductivity. The activation energy was reduced by more than half. Under standard operating conditions, the new fuel cell achieved 0.75 watts per square centimeter at 0.7 volts, representing approximately four times the power output of conventional designs. The system also demonstrated 6.9 kilowatts per gram of platinum, an important metric given the high cost of platinum as a fuel-cell catalyst. After 30,000 accelerated stress-test cycles, the new system retained 63 percent of its initial peak power, whereas conventional systems retained only 30 percent under identical conditions. The researchers indicated that the composite material can be produced at a practical scale. “In the lab right now, they can make about 100 grams in three days. That’s enough for 10 100-kilowatt-class stacks,” Li Jie stated. Possibility beyond road vehicles This technology may be advantageous in applications where weight, spatial constraints, and power density are critical considerations. The researchers emphasized its relevance for aerospace systems utilizing liquid oxygen, where efficient proton transport can significantly influence overall fuel-cell performance. “Our technology addresses how to generate power with higher efficiency and higher power density inside a smaller stack volume. This fits what aerospace energy systems need,” Li Jie said. This development coincides with the expansion of China’s hydrogen industry. By the end of 2025, the nation’s hydrogen production capacity exceeded 51 million tonnes per year. China also accounted for 53 percent of renewable-powered hydrogen projects utilizing electrolysis. Scaling remains the next test By the end of 2025, China had approximately 32,000 fuel-cell vehicles in operation. In March 2026, three central government ministries set a target of 100,000 fuel-cell vehicles by 2030 and advocated for hydrogen prices to fall below 25 yuan, or about $3.50, per kilogram. The new technology must still demonstrate that it can be manufactured cost-effectively at an industrial scale while maintaining long-term safety and reliability. “Fuel cell vehicles don’t need to copy battery EVs. Battery EVs fit short trips. Fuel cells fit heavy trucks, long hauls, and cases that need quick refueling and long range,” Li Jie said. “Next, the team will build and test high-performance fuel cell stacks for different scenarios. We’ll also scale up the related materials and technology – and turn them into real-world products,” she added. The team published their findings in the journal Science. Get the latest in engineering, tech, space & science - delivered daily to your inbox.A versatile writer, Sujita has worked with Mashable Middle East and News Daily 24. When she isn't writing, you can find her glued to the latest web series and movies.