Course Details in 2026/27 Session

Module Title	Techniques for Fuel Cell Characterisation
School	Chemical Engineering
Department	Chemical Engineering
Module Code	03 26219
Module Lead	Dr NV Rees
Level	Masters Level
Credits	10
Semester	Semester 1
Pre-requisites
Co-requisites
Restrictions	None
Exclusions
Description	The module aims to develop an understanding of the measurements techniques used in development and study of fuel cells. The course is sub-divided into two sections: a. Electrochemical Techniques b. Material Characterisation Techniques The first section introduces the electrochemical techniques to understand catalyst performance, durability and electrochemically active surface (ECSA) area. Working principle and types of fuel cells; concept of power, relation between current and voltage and I-V curve; concepts like reversibility and other electrochemistry concepts relevant to fuel cells are also included. Material characterisation discusses the principles and importance of techniques available (XRD, TGS, SEM, TEM, IR, NMR) to study composition and surface characteristics of various components (catalysts, supports, MEA, GDL) of fuel cells.
Learning Outcomes	By the end of the module students should be able to: Plan and design experimental procedures to critically evaluate the operation of fuel cells, catalyst utilisation, electrochemically active catalyst surface area and poisoning. Assess and evaluate the different electrochemical concepts including cyclic voltammetry, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, chronoamperometry to study fuel cells components. Compare, differentiate and analyse different material characterisation techniques. Evaluate different material properties and requirements (morphology, conductivity, water retention etc) for electrocatalysts, catalyst supports, conducting membranes and other fuel cell components by combining electrochemical and material characterisation.
Assessment	26219-01 : Coursework : Coursework (100%)
Assessment Methods & Exceptions	Assessment: 100% coursework, 4,000 word assignment Reassessment: Resubmission of coursework
Other	None
Reading List