SPUTTER-DEPOSITED FUEL CELL MEMBRANES AND ELECTRODES

摘要

A method for preparing a membrane for use in a fuel cell electrode assembly includes the steps of providing an electrolyte membrane, and sputter-depositing a catalyst onto the electrolyte membrane. The sputter-deposited catalyst may be applied to multiple sides of the membrane. A method for forming an electrode for use in a fuel cell membrane electrode assembly includes the steps of obtaining a catalyst, obtaining a backing, and sputter depositing the catalyst onto the backing. In the sputtering operation, the electrolyte membrane or the backing forms a substrate (6), while the catalyst is deposited from a target (4). The membranes and electrodes are useful for assembling fuel cells that include an anode, a cathode, a fuel supply, and an electrolyte membrane, wherein the membrane includes a sputter-deposited catalyst, which is effective for sustaining a voltage across a membrane electrode assembly of the fuel cell.