PAFC Design and Operation

• The PAFC uses liquid phosphoric acid as the electrolyte.
  
  
• The phosphoric acid is contained in a Teflon bonded silicone carbide matrix.
  
  
• The small pore structure of this matrix preferentially keeps the acid in place through capillary action.
  
  
• Some acid may be entrained in the fuel or oxidant streams and addition of acid may be required after many hours of operation.
  
  
• Platinum catalyzed, porous carbon electrodes are used on both the fuel (anode) and oxidant (cathode) sides of the electrolyte.