From Water to Power

Elevating performance with in-depth measurement
Bipolar plates are key components in electrolyzers and fuel cells. The primary goal of bipolar plate design is to develop an innovative structure that maximizes the available surface area, thereby enhancing power density within the given space. Their main functions include electrical conductivity, efficient gas distribution, mechanical stability to withstand high loads, temperature cycling, and corrosion resistance.

Dimensional accuracy, such as thickness, width, length, flow & distribution channel geometry, and, because hydrogen is highly volatile, defects in the seal plane are critical. Even small inaccuracies can significantly affect both the stacking of cells and the efficiency of the entire stack, which is made up of multiple to several hundred individual cells. Therefore, the properties of the plates have a direct impact on the performance and lifetime of the entire system. That's why careful quality control is essential.

ZEISS provides tailored hardware and software solutions, including ZEISS PRISMO with DotScan for non-contact, high-accuracy measurement of flow field channels and their geometry. ATOS technology enables full-field measurement and inspection of flow channels and holes. The measuring machine and microscope in one, ZEISS O-INSPECT duo, can be used to check the quality of seals and sealing surface, as well as to inspect the bipolar plate and membrane for defects. Additionally, ZEISS microscopy solutions like ZEISS EVO analyze materials and microstructures. All data can be evaluated using ZEISS software, ensuring bipolar plates meet performance standards.