The key factor of a PEMFC’s cost is the catalyst, platinum. Since the limit of effectiveness for platinum particles (2-3 nm) has already been achieved, further cost reductions will depend upon efficient distribution of triple phase zones (TPZs–reaction zones), as well as improvements in the membrane’s ion conduction.
Achieving a target cost for automotive PEMFCs in 2015 of $30/kW (a conventional combustion engine’s cost) would not be enough to ensure commercialization of fuel cell vehicles (FCVs). To effectively enter the market, FCVs require an infrastructure, particularly hydrogen delivery and storage; both are great hurdles to overcome. Opportunities emerge to adapt reformers of residential PEMFC systems with the objective being to reduce the complexity of commercialization.
FCVs and residential fuel cells clearly will require subsidies. Both stationary and vehicle applications are being pushed ultimately by government policies instead of being driven by market forces.