High current load Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy by electronic load driving

In the last years the interest in fuel cell, as an alternative device for electrical energy production, has been growing. In order to completely exploit fuel cell technology, some hindrances which limit their lifetime have to be overcome. In this context it is essential to choose the right diagnostic technique, in order to highlight failures and malfunctions during the operation. In particular EIS (Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy) can become a very important diagnostic technique, but its application at high current operation is difficult. In this work a method to realize high current EIS measurements is reported. This method has been applied to a 50 cm2 PEFC single cell using a programmable load bank integrated with a function generator controlled by a proprietary software. Obtained results are encouraging enough to develop this technique as a valid alternative to conventional EIS devices.