Corrosion Behavior of SAMs Modified Silver-Coated 316LSS as PEMFC Bipolar Plates

In order to improve the anti-corrosion characteristic of Ag-coated 316SS bipolar plates in PEMFC environment, self-assembled monolayer (SAM) was prepared on its surface by chemical methods. The electrochemical characteristic of modified bipolar plate was also investigated. The results indicated that the SAM was composed of dodecyl thioalcohol. After forming SAM, the bipolar plate’s contact angle increased from 58° to 102°. In addition, its double layer capacitance (Cd) was decreased and charge transfer resistance was increased. The homogeneous SAM, which acted as a protective barrier, inhibited the corrosive ion from corroding. SAM may provide significant protection against corrosion in PEMFC environment.