Membrane electrode assembly, methods for robotic assembly thereof, and applications for evaluating electrocatalyst activity and durability

Abstract

A membrane electrode assembly (MEA) instrument adapted for robotic assembly may include a main body and an MEA cell. The MEA cell may include a baseplate and a retention plate. The baseplate and the retention plate may be removably coupled to secure, therebetween, an MEA sample including a working electrode and an electrolyte serving as an ion exchange membrane. A sealing member providing a fluidic seal around the MEA sample may be further secured between the baseplate coupled with the retention plate. Upon being coupled with the main body, a first force acting against the main body may be applied against the sealing member. Furthermore, a second force acting against the counter electrode and / or the MEA cell may be applied to compress the counter electrode against the MEA cell. The MEA sample may undergo one or more experiments to evaluate the combination of electrocatalysts and electrolyte contained therein.

Description

Attorney Ref.: VL97015-W1 / 014722-0006-228 (101696.228006)MEMBRANE ELECTRODE ASSEMBLY, METHODS FOR ROBOTIC ASSEMBLY THEREOF, AND APPLICATIONS FOR EVALUATING ELECTROCATALYST ACTIVITY AND DURABILITY CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 701,310, entitled “MEMBRANE ELECTRODE ASSEMBLY, METHODS FOR ROBOTIC ASSEMBLY THEREOF, AND APPLICATIONS FOR EVALUATING ELECTROCATALYST ACTIVITY AND DURABILITY” and fded on September 30, 2024, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The subject matter described herein relates generally to electrochemical research and development and more specifically to a membrane electrode assembly (MEA) cell and a membrane electrode assembly instrument adapted for robotic assembly.BACKGROUND

[0003] A membrane electrode assembly (MEA) facilitates electrochemical reactions that separate and recombine protons and electrons. As such, membrane electrode assemblies are an integral component of electrochemical systems such as fuel cells, electrolyzers, electrodialysis instruments, electrochemical separators, and / or the like. A typical membrane electrode assembly includes an ion exchange membrane, catalyst layers, and gas diffusion layers (GDL). For example, a three-layer membrane electrode assembly or a catalyst coated membrane (CCM) includes two layers of electrocatalysts serving as the anode and cathode applied to opposite sides of a polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM). A five-layer membrane electrode assembly is an alternative configuration that further includes two gas diffusion layers. Fuel molecules (e.g., hydrogen,1127389798v 1Attorney Ref.: VL97015-W1 / 014722-0006-228 (101696.228006)methanol, and / or the like) entering through the anode side of a membrane electrode assembly are split into protons and electrons. The protons diffuse through the membrane (e.g., the polymer electrolyte membrane) while the electrons follow an electrical pathway before reacting with an oxidant (e.g., oxygen, air, and / or the like) at the cathode side of the membrane electrode assembly to produce water.SUMMARY

[0004] Systems, methods, and articles of manufacture, including a membrane electrode assembly (MEA) cell and a membrane electrode assembly instrument adapted for robotic assembly, are provided.

[0005] In one aspect, there is provided a membrane electrode assembly (MEA) instrument. The MEA instrument includes: a main body configured to deliver a liquid electrolyte to a counter electrode; and an MEA cell configured to be removably coupled with the main body by robotic operations, wherein the MEA cell includes an MEA sample that is compressed against the counter electrode when the MEA cell is coupled with the main body.

[0006] In some variations, one or more features disclosed herein including the following features can optionally be included in any feasible combination.

[0007] In some variations, the MEA sample includes a working electrode, an electrolyte, and a catalyst interposed between the working electrode and the electrolyte.

[0008] In some variations, the MEA cell includes a baseplate and a retention plate configured to be removably coupled with the baseplate, and wherein the baseplate and the retention plate are further configured to secure the MEA sample therebetween.2127389798v 1Attorney Ref.: VL97015-W1 / 014722-0006-228 (101696.228006)

[0009] In some variations, the baseplate is configured to receive the MEA sample by robotic operations.

[0010] In some variations, the baseplate and the retention plate are configured to be aligned and coupled by robotic operations.

[0011] In some variations, the MEA cell further includes a flow plate configured to control a flow of one or more reactants to the MEA sample.

[0012] In some variations, the flow plate is further configured to provide an electrical interface to a working electrode included with the MEA sample.

[0013] In some variations, coupling the MEA cell with the main body applies a first force compressing the MEA sample against the counter electrode.

[0014] In some variations, the coupling of the MEA cell with the main body further applies a second force against at least one sealing member around the MEA sample in the MEA cell.

[0015] In some variations, the first force and the second force are independent and separately controlled forces with user-determined magnitudes.

[0016] In another aspect, there is provided a membrane electrode assembly (MEA) cell adapted for robotic assembly. The MEA cell includes: a baseplate configured to receive an MEA sample including a working electrode and an electrolyte; a retention plate configured to be removably coupled with the baseplate, wherein the coupling of the baseplate and the retention plate secures, between the baseplate and the retention plate, the MEA sample and a counter electrode; and a flow plate configured to control a flow of one or more reactants to the MEA sample, wherein the MEA cell is configured to be removably coupled with a main body adapted to apply a force compressing the MEA sample against the counter electrode.3127389798v 1Attorney Ref.: VL97015-W1 / 014722-0006-228 (101696.228006)

[0017] In some variations, one or more features disclosed herein including the following features can optionally be included in any feasible combination.

[0018] In some variations, the MEA sample includes a working electrode, an electrolyte, and a catalyst interposed between the working electrode and the electrolyte.

[0019] In some variations, the MEA sample is positioned with an electrically conductive surface of the MEA sample contacting one or more reactant channels in the flow plate.

[0020] In some variations, the flow plate is further configured to provide an electrical interface to the working electrode.

[0021] In some variations, the MEA cell further includes: at least one sealing member to provide a fluidic seal around the MEA sample when the baseplate is coupled with the retention plate.

[0022] In some variations, the main body is coupled with a spring loaded stage that acts upon the main body to apply a different force against the at least one sealing member when the MEA cell is coupled with the main body.

[0023] In some variations, the force compressing the MEA sample against the counter electrode is independent and controlled separately from the different force against the at least one sealing member.

[0024] In some variations, the at least one sealing member includes a gasket between the MEA sample, the baseplate, and the retention plate.

[0025] In some variations, the MEA cell is further configured to be removably coupled with a linear actuator or spring that acts upon the MEA cell to compress the MEA sample against the counter electrode when the MEA cell is coupled with the main body.4127389798v 1Attorney Ref.: VL97015-W1 / 014722-0006-228 (101696.228006)

[0026] In some variations, the main body includes an additional linear actuator or spring that displaces the counter electrode towards the MEA sample to apply a counter force against the MEA sample when the MEA cell is coupled with the main body.

[0027] In some variations, the counter electrode is smaller in dimensions than the flow plate to increase a uniformity in the force applied across a surface of the MEA sample.

[0028] In some variations, coupling the MEA cell with the main body includes aligning the MEA sample on the flow plate with the counter electrode.

[0029] In some variations, the counter electrode is positioned to be in fluid communication with a chamber in the main body that receives a liquid electrolyte from an electrolyte inlet in the main body.

[0030] In some variations, the counter electrode is porous to permit fluid flow therethrough.

[0031] In some variations, the MEA cell further includes: one or more flow channels is configured to deliver an electrolyte to a reference electrode.

[0032] In some variations, the MEA cell further includes: at least one sealing member is further configured to provide a fluidic seal around the reference electrode.

[0033] In some variations, the one or more flow channels are disposed at least partially within the baseplate and / or the retention plate.

[0034] In some variations, the retention plate includes a chamber, and the counter electrode and / or the MEA sample are disposed at least partially inside the chamber when the MEA cell is coupled with the main body.5127389798v 1Attorney Ref.: VL97015-W1 / 014722-0006-228 (101696.228006)

[0035] In some variations, the MEA cell further includes: at least one sealing member configured to provide a fluidic seal around a perimeter of the chamber.

[0036] In some variations, the MEA sample includes a catalyst interposed between the working electrode and the electrolyte.

[0037] In some variations, the flow of the one or more reactants to the MEA sample forms a first triple phase boundary between the electrolyte, the one or more reactants, and the catalyst.

[0038] In some variations, the catalyst includes one or more metal organic frameworks (MOFs).

[0039] In some variations, the electrolyte is a polymer electrolyte, a solid electrolyte, or an immobilized nonaqueous electrolyte.

[0040] In some variations, the MEA cell further includes: one or more fasteners configured to secure the coupling between the retention plate and the baseplate.

[0041] In some variations, the one or more fasteners include one or more magnets.

[0042] In some variations, the MEA cell further includes: one or more alignment members configured to align the retention plate and the baseplate during the coupling of the retention plate and the baseplate.

[0043] In some variations, the one or more alignment members include one or more pins.

[0044] In some variations, the one or more alignment members are further configured to secure the coupling between the retention plate and the baseplate.

[0045] In some variations, the baseplate includes one or more electrical contacts for the working electrode.6127389798v 1Attorney Ref.: VL97015-W1 / 014722-0006-228 (101696.228006)

[0046] In some variations, the flow plate includes a serpentine flow pattern.

[0047] In some variations, the flow plate further includes an inlet for the one or more reactants to enter the flow plate and an outlet for the one or more reactants to exit the flow plate.

[0048] In another aspect, there is provided a membrane electrode assembly (MEA) cell adapted for robotic assembly. The MEA cell includes: a baseplate configured to receive an MEA sample including a working electrode and an electrolyte; a retention plate configured to be removably coupled with the baseplate, wherein the coupling of the baseplate and the retention plate secures, between the baseplate and the retention plate, the MEA sample and a counter electrode; and a flow plate positioned below the MEA sample in the baseplate, wherein the flow plate is configured to control a flow of one or more reactants to the MEA sample, wherein the MEA cell is configured to be removably coupled with a main body adapted to deliver a liquid electrolyte to the counter electrode.

[0049] In some variations, one or more features disclosed herein including the following features can optionally be included in any feasible combination.

[0050] In some variations, the MEA cell further includes: at least one sealing member to provide a fluidic seal around the MEA sample when the baseplate is coupled with the retention plate.

[0051] In some variations, the main body is coupled with a spring loaded stage that acts upon the main body to apply a force against the at least one sealing member when the MEA cell is coupled with the main body.7127389798v 1Attorney Ref.: VL97015-W1 / 014722-0006-228 (101696.228006)

[0052] In some variations, the MEA cell is further configured to be removably coupled with a linear actuator or spring that acts upon the MEA cell to compress the MEA sample against the counter electrode when the MEA cell is coupled with the main body.

[0053] In some variations, the main body includes an additional linear actuator or spring that displaces the counter electrode towards the MEA sample to apply a counter force against the MEA sample when the MEA cell is coupled with the main body.

[0054] In another aspect, there is provided a method for robotic assembly of a membrane electrode assembly (MEA) instrument. The method includes operating a robot to at least: position, on a baseplate, an MEA sample including a working electrode and an electrolyte, wherein the MEA sample is positioned atop a flow plate configured to control a flow of one or more reactants to the MEA sample; couple the baseplate with a retention plate, wherein the coupling of the baseplate and the retention plate secures, between the baseplate and the retention plate, the MEA sample and a counter electrode, and wherein the coupling of the baseplate and the retention plate forms an MEA cell in which at least one sealing member disposed between the baseplate and the retention plate provides a fluidic seal around the MEA sample; and apply a first force against the at least one sealing member and a second force compressing the MEA sample against the counter electrode.

[0055] In some variations, one or more features disclosed herein including the following features can optionally be included in any feasible combination.

[0056] In some variations, the robot is further operated to position the MEA sample with an electrically conductive surface of the MEA sample contacting one or more reactant channels in the flow plate.8127389798v 1Attorney Ref.: VL97015-W1 / 014722-0006-228 (101696.228006)

[0057] In some variations, the robot is further operated to couple the MEA cell with a main body.

[0058] In some variations, the main body includes a chamber in fluid communication with the counter electrode, and a liquid electrolyte is delivered to the counter electrode by entering the chamber through the electrolyte inlet.

[0059] In some variations, the retention plate includes a chamber, and the coupling of the MEA cell with the main body includes disposing the counter electrode and / or the MEA sample at least partially inside the chamber.

[0060] In some variations, the at least one sealing member further provides a fluidic seal between the chamber and the counter electrode.

[0061] In some variations, the robot is further operated to control a spring loaded stage coupled with the main body to control the first force applied against the at least one sealing member.

[0062] In some variations, the robot is further operated to control a linear actuator or spring acting on the MEA cell to control the second force applied to compress the MEA sample against the counter electrode.

[0063] In some variations, the main body includes an additional spring or linear actuator that displaces the counter electrode towards the MEA sample to apply a counter force against the MEA sample when the MEA cell is coupled with the main body.

[0064] In some variations, the first force and the second force are independent, separately controlled forces with user-determined magnitudes.9127389798v 1Attorney Ref.: VL97015-W1 / 014722-0006-228 (101696.228006)

[0065] In some variations, the coupling of the retention plate and the baseplate includes securing the coupling with one or more fasteners.

[0066] In some variations, the coupling of the baseplate and the retention plate includes aligning the baseplate and the retention plate with one or more alignment members.

[0067] In some variations, the MEA sample includes a catalyst interposed between the working electrode and the electrolyte.

[0068] In some variations, the catalyst includes one or more metal organic frameworks (MOFs).

[0069] In some variations, the electrolyte is a polymer electrolyte, a solid electrolyte, or an immobilized nonaqueous electrolyte.

[0070] In another aspect, there is provided a membrane electrode assembly (MEA) instrument. The MEA instrument includes: a main body having means for delivering a liquid electrolyte to a counter electrode; and an MEA cell having means for removably coupling the MEA cell with the main body by robotic operations, wherein the MEA cell further includes means for compressing an MEA sample against the counter electrode when the MEA cell is coupled with the main body.

[0071] In another aspect, there is provided membrane electrode assembly (MEA) cell adapted for robotic assembly. The MEA cell includes: means for securing a counter electrode and an MEA sample including a working electrode and an electrolyte; means for controlling a flow of one or more reactants to the MEA sample; and means for removably coupling the MEA cell with a main body adapted to apply a force compressing the MEA sample against the counter electrode.10127389798v 1Attorney Ref.: VL97015-W1 / 014722-0006-228 (101696.228006)

[0072] In another aspect, there is provided a membrane electrode assembly (MEA) cell adapted for robotic assembly. The MEA cell includes: means for securing a counter electrode and an MEA sample including a working electrode and an electrolyte; means for controlling a flow of one or more reactants to the MEA sample; and means for removably coupling the MEA cell with a main body adapted to deliver a liquid electrolyte to the counter electrode.

[0073] The details of one or more variations of the subject matter described herein are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features and advantages of the subject matter described herein will be apparent from the description and drawings, and from the claims. While certain features of the currently disclosed subject matter are described for illustrative purposes in relation to the evaluation of electrocatalyst activity and durability, it should be readily understood that such features are not intended to be limiting. The claims that follow this disclosure are intended to define the scope of the protected subject matter.DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0074] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, show certain aspects of the subject matter disclosed herein and, together with the description, help explain some of the principles associated with the disclosed implementations. In the drawings,

[0075] FIG. 1A depicts a cross sectional view of an example of a membrane electrode assembly (MEA) assembly, in accordance with some example embodiments;

[0076] FIG. IB depicts a different cross sectional view of an example of a membrane electrode assembly (MEA) instrument, in accordance with some example embodiments;11127389798v 1Attorney Ref.: VL97015-W1 / 014722-0006-228 (101696.228006)

[0077] FIG. 1C depicts a perspective view of a cross section of an example of a membrane electrode assembly (MEA) instrument, in accordance with some example embodiments;

[0078] FIG. 2 depicts a perspective view of a fluidic interface within a main body of an example of a membrane electrode (MEA) instrument, in accordance with some example embodiments;

[0079] FIG. 3A depicts a cross sectional view of an example of a membrane electrode assembly (MEA) cell, in accordance with some example embodiments;

[0080] FIG. 3B depicts an exploded view of an example of a membrane electrode assembly (MEA) cell, in accordance with some example embodiments;

[0081] FIG. 4A depicts a perspective view of an example of a baseplate, in accordance with some example embodiments;

[0082] FIG. 4B depicts a perspective view of an example of a baseplate coupled with a retention plate, in accordance with some example embodiments;

[0083] FIG. 5A depicts a top view of an example of a flow plate, in accordance with some example embodiments;

[0084] FIG. 5B depicts a perspective view of an example of a flow plate, in accordance with some example embodiments;

[0085] FIG. 5C depicts a top view of an example of a flow plate positioned in a baseplate, in accordance with some example embodiments;

[0086] FIG. 6 depicts a flowchart illustrating an example of a process for robotic assembly of a membrane electrode assembly (MEA) instrument, in accordance with some example embodiments;12127389798v 1Attorney Ref.: VL97015-W1 / 014722-0006-228 (101696.228006)

[0087] FIG. 7 depicts a flowchart illustrating an example of a process for robotic assembly of a membrane electrode assembly (MEA) instrument, in accordance with some example embodiments;

[0088] When practical, similar reference numbers denote similar structures, features, or elements.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0089] Membrane electrode assemblies (MEAs) are an integral component of electrochemical systems such as fuel cells, electrolyzers, electrodialysis instruments, electrochemical separators, and / or the like. Research and development in commercialized electrochemical technologies may focus on optimizing MEA reactors in which a flow of reactants (e g., fuel, oxidant, and / or the like) are delivered to one or more constituent membrane electrode assemblies. In some cases, a core aspect of optimizing an MEA reactor includes managing the triple phase boundary between the ion exchange membrane (e.g., polymer electrolyte membrane), the electrocatalyst with its electrically conducting support, and the reactants. It should be appreciated that this triple phase boundary exists on the anode and cathode side of an MEA. As such, research on electrocatalysts and ion exchange membranes may entail assembling membrane electrode assemblies with different combinations of cathodic electrocatalysts, anodic electrocatalysts, and ion exchange membranes. The resulting stacks of materials, each of which being an MEA sample, can undergo various experiments to evaluate the performance and durability of the constituent electrocatalysts and / or ion exchange membranes. However, conventional methodologies for assembling an MEA are time consuming and resource intensive,13127389798v 1Attorney Ref.: VL97015-W1 / 014722-0006-228 (101696.228006)thus limiting experimental throughput and the overall efficiency of the research and development process.

[0090] In some example embodiments, a membrane electrode assembly (MEA) instrument may include a main body and an MEA cell configured to be removably coupled with the main body by robotic operations. The main body may be configured to deliver a liquid electrolyte to a counter electrode while the MEA cell may include an MEA sample that is compressed against the counter electrode when the MEA cell is coupled with the main body. In some cases, the MEA sample may include a working electrode, an electrolyte, and a catalyst interposed between the working electrode and the electrolyte. For example, in some cases, the electrolyte may be a polymer electrolyte, a solid electrolyte, or an immobilized nonaqueous electrolyte serving as an ion exchange membrane (e.g., cation exchange membrane (CEM), anion exchange membrane (AEM), proton exchange membrane (PEM), and / or the like). Moreover, in some cases, the catalyst may include one or more metal organic frameworks (MOFs) configured to support the exchange of protons between the working electrode and the counter electrode. As described in more details below, the MEA cell may be assembled and coupled with the main body of the MEA instrument by robotic operations to increase the throughput of experiments evaluating the performance and durability of the working electrode, the electrolyte, and / or the catalyst.

[0091] In some example embodiments, the membrane electrode assembly (MEA) cell may include a baseplate and a retention plate configured to be removably coupled with the baseplate. In some cases, the MEA sample may be secured between the baseplate and the retention plate while a sealing member (e.g., a gasket, an O-ring, and / or the like) provides a fluidic sea around the MEA sample. In some cases, the MEA cell may further include a flow plate may be configured to control a flow of one or more reactants (e.g., fuel, oxidant, and / or the like) to the MEA sample.14127389798v 1Attorney Ref.: VL97015-W1 / 014722-0006-228 (101696.228006)In some cases, the flow plate may also be configured to provide an electrical interface to the working electrode included in the MEA sample. In some cases, the MEA cell may be robotically assembled by operating a robot to position, on the baseplate, the MEA sample with an electrically conductive surface of the MEA sample contacting one or more flow channels in the flow plate. Positioned as such, the MEA sample may be exposed to one or more reactants (e.g., fuel, oxidant, and / or the like) traveling through the one or more flow channels in the flow plate. The robot may be further operated to couple the baseplate with the retention plate, thereby securing the MEA sample and a counter electrode between the baseplate and the retention plate. In some cases, a first force may be applied against the sealing member while a second force may be applied to compress the MEA sample against the counter electrode. In some cases, the first force and the second force are independent and separately controlled forces with user-determined magnitudes. For example, in some cases, the first force against the sealing member may be applied by a spring loaded stage acting upon the main body. Meanwhile, the second force against the sealing member may the net of a force applied by a linear actuator or a spring against on the MEA cell and, in some cases, a counter force applied against the MEA sample by an additional linear actuator or spring displacing the counter electrode towards the MEA sample.

[0092] FIGS. 1A-C depict schematic diagrams illustrating different cross sectional views of an example of a membrane electrode assembly (MEA) instrument 100, in accordance with some example embodiments. Referring to FIGS. 1A-C, the MEA instrument 100 may include a main body 110 and an MEA cell 120 configured to be removably coupled with the main body 110 by robotic operations. In the example of the MEA instrument 100 shown in FIGS. 1A-C, the main body 110 of the MEA instrument 100 may include a mounting fixture 116 configured to secure the coupling between the main body 110 and the MEA cell 120. In some cases, the mounting15127389798v 1Attorney Ref.: VL97015-W1 / 014722-0006-228 (101696.228006)fixture 116 securing the coupling between the main body 110 and the MEA cell 120 may include one or more of snaps, latches, grooves, threading, magnets, clips, quick connect, sliding mechanisms, quarter turn release, friction fit, and / or the like.

[0093] In some example embodiments, the MEA cell 120 may include a baseplate 121 and a retention plate 122 configured to be removably coupled with the baseplate 121 by robotic operations. In the example of the MEA instrument 100 shown in FIGS. 1A-C, the MEA cell 120 may further include a flow plate 123 upon which an MEA sample 125 including a working electrode, an electrocatalyst, and / or an electrolyte (e.g., a polymer electrolyte, a solid electrolyte, an immobilized nonaqueous electrolyte, and / or the like) is disposed. In some cases, the electrolyte in the MEA sample 125 may be a membrane formed from, for example, one or more polymers, ceramics, and / or the like. Moreover, in some cases, the electrolyte in the MEA sample 125 may serve as an ion exchange membrane (e g., cation exchange membrane (CEM), anion exchange membrane (AEM), proton exchange membrane (PEM), and / or the like).

[0094] In some cases, the flow plate 123 may be configured to control the flow of one or more reactants (e.g., fuel, oxidant, and / or the like) to the MEA sample 125. For example, in some cases, the flow plate 123 may include one or more flow channels 127 (e.g., a serpentine channel) through which the one or more reactants are delivered to the MEA sample 125. Furthermore, in some cases, the flow plate 123 may also provide an electrical interface to the MEA sample 125 (e.g., the working electrode included in the MEA sample 125). For instance, in some cases, the flow plate 123 may be fabricated from a metal (e.g., titanium (Ti) and / or the like) or a metal alloy.

[0095] In some example embodiments, the assembly of the MEA cell 120 may include operating a robot to position, on the baseplate 121, the MEA sample 125 with the MEA sample 125 being positioned atop the flow plate 123. Moreover, in some cases, the robot may be further 16127389798v 1Attorney Ref.: VL97015-W1 / 014722-0006-228 (101696.228006)operated to couple the baseplate 121 with the retention plate 122. Doing so may secure, between the baseplate 121 and the retention plate 122, the MEA sample 125 and a counter electrode 124. In some cases, the baseplate 121 and the retention plate 122 may further secure, therebetween, a sealing member 126 (e.g., a gasket, an O-ring, and / or the like) configured to provide, around the MEA sample 125, a fluidic seal that prevents the egress of the one or more reactants (e.g., fuel, oxidant, and / or the like) and / or the ingress of contaminants (e.g., working electrolyte, reference electrolyte, and / or the like). As described in more details below, the assembly of the MEA cell 120 may further include operating the robot to activate one or more springs (or linear actuators) acting on the MEA cell 120 to apply a force compressing the counter electrode 124 against the MEA sample 125.

[0096] In some example embodiments, the counter electrode 124, the MEA sample 125, and the sealing member 126 may be interposed between the baseplate 121 and the retention plate 122 when the baseplate 121 is coupled with the retention plate 122 by robotic operations. For example, in some cases, the retention plate 122 may include a chamber and the coupling of the MEA cell 120 with the main body 110 may include disposing the counter electrode 124 and / or the MEA sample 125 at least partially within the chamber. Furthermore, in some cases, when the main body 110 and the MEA cell 120 are coupled by robotic operations, a first force may be applied against the sealing member 126 while a second force may be compressing the counter electrode 124 against the MEA sample 125. In some cases, the flow of the counter electrolyte through the counter electrode 124 may form one triple phase boundary while the flow of the one or more reactants (e.g., fuel, oxidant, and / or the like) through the working electrode in the MEA sample 125 may form another triple phase boundary.17127389798v 1Attorney Ref.: VL97015-W1 / 014722-0006-228 (101696.228006)

[0097] In some example embodiments, the first force applied against the sealing member 126 and the second force compressing the counter electrode 124 against the MEA sample 125 may be independent and separately controlled forces. Moreover, in some cases, the respective magnitudes of the first force and the second force may be user-determined. For instance, in the example shown in FIGS. 1A-C, the first force applied against the sealing member 126 may be controlled by controlling (e.g., by robotic operations) a stage (e.g., a spring-loaded stage) coupled with the main body 110. In some cases, the second force compressing the counter electrode 124 against the MEA sample 125 may be controlled by controlling (e.g., by robotic operations) a linear actuator or spring acting on the MEA cell 120. Alternatively and / or additionally, the second force may be controlled by controlling (e.g., by robotic operations) a spring 113 (or linear actuator) in the main body 110 that displaces the counter electrode 124 towards the MEA sample 125. It should be appreciated that the spring 113 (or linear actuator) may apply a counter force against the MEA sample 125 that further compresses the counter electrode 124 against the MEA sample 125.

[0098] Referring again to FIGS. 1A-C, the MEA instrument 100 may be configured to deliver a counter electrolyte (e.g., a liquid counter electrolyte) to the counter electrode 124. In some cases, the counter electrolyte may enter, through an electrolyte inlet 111 (e.g., in the main body 110), a chamber 115 in fluid communication with the counter electrode 124. Furthermore, in some cases, the counter electrolyte may exit the chamber 115 through one or more electrolyte outlets 114 (e.g., in the main body 110). In doing so, the electrolyte inlet 111 and the one or more electrolyte outlets 114 may provide a flow of counter electrolyte to the counter electrode 124. A detailed view of the fluidic interface within the main body 110 of the MEA instrument 100 is depicted in FIG. 2. As shown in FIG. 2, in some cases, the chamber 115 may include one or more connection points in fluid communication with the electrolyte inlet 111 and the one or more18127389798v 1Attorney Ref.: VL97015-W1 / 014722-0006-228 (101696.228006)electrolyte outlets 114. For example, in the example shown in FIG. 2, the chamber 115 may include a connection point 210 in fluid communication with the electrolyte inlet 111 such that the counter electrolyte may travel through the electrolyte inlet 111 before entering the chamber 115 through the connection point 210. In some cases, the chamber 115 may include one or more additional connection points, such as the connection points 211-214, which are in fluid communication with the one or more electrolyte outlets 114. It should be appreciated that the counter electrolyte may exit the chamber 115 into the one or more electrolyte outlets 114 through the connection points 211-214.

[0099] In some example embodiments, once assembled with the MEA cell 120 secured to the main body 110, the MEA instrument 100 may mimic an electrochemical system in which fuel molecules (e.g., hydrogen, methanol, and / or the like) entering through the anode side of the MEA sample 125 are split into protons and electrons. The protons then diffuse through the MEA sample 125 while the electrons follow an electrical pathway before reacting with an oxidant (e g., oxygen, air, and / or the like) at the cathode side of the MEA cell 125 to produce water. In some cases, once assembled, the MEA instrument 100 may control the flow of different fluids, including the one or more reactants, the counter electrolyte, and the products of the electrochemical reaction, to and from the MEA sample 125. In some cases, these fluids may be a solution, for example, with water (or a different solvent). Moreover, in some cases, these fluids may be in a variety of different phases including, for example, liquid, gas, and / or the like. The performance of the MEA sample 125 may be determined, for example, by measuring one or more of electrocatalyst activity, resistance of the ion exchange membrane, resistance of the electrocatalyst, current density, voltage, and / or the like. As such, in some cases, the MEA sample 125 in the MEA cell 120 may undergo one or more of chronoamperometry, chronopotentiometry, cyclic voltammetry, electrochemical19127389798v 1Attorney Ref.: VL97015-W1 / 014722-0006-228 (101696.228006)impedance spectroscopy, and / or the like. It should be appreciated that the performance of the MEA sample 125 may be assessed in different operating conditions (e.g., temperature and / or the like).

[0100] FIGS. 3A-B depicts different views of an example of the membrane electrode assembly (MEA) cell 120, in accordance with some example embodiments. As shown in FIGS.3A-B, the membrane electrode assembly (MEA) cell 120, which includes the baseplate 121 coupled with the retention plate 122 to secure the counter electrode 124 and the MEA sample 125 therebetween, may include one or more fluid and / or electrical connections. For instance, the example of the MEA cell 120 shown in FIG. 3A may include a flow channel for a reference electrode to contact the MEA sample 125 (e.g., the electrolyte included in the MEA sample 115). Alternatively and / or additionally, the MEA cell 120 may include a contact wire 303 that is coupled with the flow plate 123. In some cases, the contact wire 303 may provide an electrical pathway for the electrons generated by the electrochemical reaction occurring at the MEA sample 125 in contact with the flow plate 123.

[0101] One or more dimensions, such as the length (Z), width (w), height (Zi), and / or the like, of the MEA cell 120 may be varied depending on the application and, in some cases, the dimensions of the electrochemical system in which the MEA cell 120 is deployed. For example, in some cases, the length (Z) of the MEA cell 120 may between 2 centimeters and 100 centimeters. Furthermore, in some cases, the width (w) of the MEA cell may be between 2 centimeters and 12 centimeters. In some cases, the MEA cell 120 may be square in shape, meaning that the length (Z) and the width (w) of the MEA cell 120 are substantially equal. In some cases, the MEA cell 120 may be 2.0 centimeters in length (Z) and 2.0 centimeters in width (w). Alternatively, the MEA cell 120 may be 5.0 centimeters in length (Z) and 5.0 centimeters in width (w), 7.0 centimeters in length 20127389798v 1Attorney Ref.: VL97015-W1 / 014722-0006-228 (101696.228006)(T) and 7.0 centimeters in width (w), or 10.0 centimeters in length (Z) and 10.0 centimeters in width (w). The height ( ) of the MEA cell 120 may be between 1 centimeter and 20 centimeters. In some cases, the MEA sample 125 may have a dimension that is between 10% to 100% of the dimensions of the MEA cell 120. In some cases, the MEA sample 125 may have a thickness between 0.05 / zm and 5 millimeters. The portion of the MEA sample 125 contacting the one or more flow channels 127 in the flow plate 123 may form a so-called active area of the MEA cell 120. In some cases, the active area of the MEA cell 120 may have a dimension that is between 10% to 100% of the dimensions of the MEA cell 120.

[0102] Referring again to FIGS. 3A-B, in some cases, the baseplate 121 may include a slot configured to receive the flow plate 123. In the exploded view of the MEA cell 120 shown in FIG.3B, the flow plate 123 is shown as being a separable component capable of being inserted and removed from its slot in the baseplate 121. However, it should be appreciated that the flow plate 123 can also be permanently affixed to the baseplate 121 or, in other instances, be fabricated from a monolithic piece of material forming the baseplate 121. In some cases, the baseplate 121 may include one or more grooves 306 (or another type of recess in the baseplate 121) configured to receive the sealing member 126 (e.g., a gasket, an O-ring, and / or the like) providing a fluidic seal around the MEA sample 125 and / or a sealing member 301 providing a fluidic seal around a fluid channel 302 delivering a reference electrolyte to the reference electrode. In some cases, the one or more grooves 306 may serve to secure the sealing member 126 and / or the sealing member 301 at a fixed location between the baseplate 121 and the retention plate 122.

[0103] In some example embodiments, the MEA cell 120 may include one or more fasteners 304 for securing the coupling between the baseplate 121 and the retention plate 122. Examples of the one or more fasteners 304 may include one or more of snaps, latches, grooves,21127389798v 1Attorney Ref.: VL97015-W1 / 014722-0006-228 (101696.228006)threading, magnets, clips, quick connect, sliding mechanisms, quarter turn release, friction fit, and / or the like. In some cases, the MEA cell 120 may further include one or more alignment members 305, such as pins, rods, and / or the like, configured to align the coupling between the baseplate 121 and the retention plate 122. It should be appreciated that in cases where the one or more fasteners 304 also serve to align the baseplate 121 and the retention plate 122, the MEA cell 120 may be implemented without the one or more alignment members 305. Moreover, the one or more fasteners 304 and / or the one or more alignment members 305 may be adapted to facilitate robotic assembly of the MEA cell 120 including, for example, the alignment and coupling of the baseplate 121 and the retention plate 122.

[0104] FIGS. 4A-B depicts additional views of an example of the MEA cell 120, in accordance with some example embodiments. In FIG. 4A, the baseplate 121 of the MEA cell 120 is shown with the flow plate 123 positioned within its slot in the baseplate 121 while the sealing member 126 and the sealing member 301 are positioned within the one or more grooves 306. Referring now to FIG. 4B, when the baseplate 121 is coupled with the retention plate 122, for example, by robotic operations, an opening in the retention plate 121 may form a chamber 400. In some cases, the chamber 400 may be configured to receive at least a portion of the counter electrode 124 and / or the MEA sample 125 when the MEA cell 120 is coupled with the main body 110.

[0105] FIGS. 5A-B depicts different view of an example of the flow plate 123, in accordance with some example embodiments. As noted, in some cases, the flow plate 123 may include one or more flow channels 127 configured to deliver one or more reactants (e.g., fuel, oxidant, and / or the like) to the MEA sample 125 that is disposed atop the flow plate 123 in the assembled MEA cell 120. The example of the flow plate 123 shown in FIGS. 5A-B includes a22127389798v 1Attorney Ref.: VL97015-W1 / 014722-0006-228 (101696.228006)single serpentine flow channel. However, the one or more flow channels 127 may also be implemented with another form factor without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, in some cases, the one or more flow channels 127 may include multiple serpentine flow channels. Alternatively, instead of one or more serpentine flow channels, the one or more flow channels 127 may also be implemented as one or more parallel flow channels, one or more interdigitated flow channels, and / or the like. It should be appreciated that the form factor and geometric parameters (e.g., channel height to channel width ratio, rib width to channel width ratio, and / or the like) of the one or more flow channels 127 may determine, at least partially, the fluid dynamics of the one or more reactants traveling through the one or more flow channels 127. In some instances, the one or more flow channels 127 may also include baffling (or blocks) to further control the fluid dynamics of the one or more reactants traveling through the one or more flow channels 127. Such fluidic dynamics, including the residence time, flow rate, and flow regime (e.g., turbulent flow, laminar flow, and / or the like) of the one or more reactants through the one or more flow channels 127, may influence the performance of the MEA cell 120.

[0106] FIG. 5C depicts a top view of the baseplate 121 with the flow plate 123 positioned in its slot in the baseplate 121. In the example shown in FIG. 5C, the one or more flow channels 127 may include one or more connection points 505 to support the flow of the one or more reactants through the one or more flow channels 127. In instances where the one or more flow channels 127 includes one or more serpentine flow channel, for example, the one or more connection points 505 may include, for each serpentine flow channel, a first connection point through which the one or more reactants enter the flow channel 127 and a second connection point through which the one or more reactants exit the flow channel 127. In some cases, one or more the connection points 505 may be baffled (or blocked) to improve the forced convection of the gas within the gas diffusion23127389798v 1Attorney Ref.: VL97015-W1 / 014722-0006-228 (101696.228006)layers of the MEA sample 125, thereby reducing concentration losses at high current density and increasing the overall performance of the MEA cell 120.

[0107] FIG. 6 depicts a flowchart illustrating an example of a process 600 for robotic assembly of a membrane electrode assembly (MEA) instrument, in accordance with some example embodiments. Referring to FIGS. 1-6, in some cases, the process 600 may be performed to robotically assemble a membrane electrode assembly (MEA) instrument, such as the example of the MEA instrument 100 and the constituent MEA cell 120 shown in FIGS. 1-5. In some cases, robotic assembly of an MEA instrument, such as the MEA instrument 100 and the MEA cell 120 shown in FIGS. 1-5, may be less time consuming and resource intensive than conventional methodologies for doing so. As such, robotic assembly of an MEA instrument, such as the example of the MEA instrument 100 and the MEA cell 120 shown in FIGS. 1-5, may increase the throughput of experiments evaluating different combinations of cathodic electrocatalysts, anodic electrocatalysts, and ion exchange membranes. For example, in some cases, the MEA instrument 100 including the MEA cell 120 may be quickly disassembled and assembled in order to replace a first MEA sample having one combination of electrocatalysts and ion exchange membranes in the MEA cell 120 with a second MEA sample with a different combination electrocatalysts and ion exchange membranes.

[0108] At 602, a robot may be operated to assemble a membrane electrode assembly (MEA) cell to secure, between a baseplate and a retention plate of the MEA cell, a first MEA sample. In some example embodiments, an MEA instrument adapted for robotic assembly may include an MEA cell with a baseplate and a retention plate. In some cases, the baseplate and the retention plate may be coupled by robotic operations to secure, between the baseplate and the retention plate, an MEA sample. For example, in some cases, the baseplate and / or the retention24127389798v 1Attorney Ref.: VL97015-W1 / 014722-0006-228 (101696.228006)plate may include one or more alignment members (e g., pins, rods, and / or the like) to enable the baseplate to be aligned with the retention plate. Furthermore, in some cases, the baseplate and / or the retention plate may include one or more fasteners to secure the coupling between the baseplate and the retention plate. Examples of the one or more fasteners may include one or more of snaps, latches, grooves, threading, magnets, clips, quick connect, sliding mechanisms, quarter turn release, friction fit, and / or the like. As such, in some cases, the coupling of the baseplate and the retention plate may include operating the robot to align the baseplate with the retention plate before the coupling between the baseplate and the retention plate is secured by the one or more fasteners. In some cases, the MEA sample may include a working electrode and an electrolyte (e.g., a polymer electrolyte, a solid electrolyte, an immobilized nonaqueous electrolyte, and / or the like) serving as an ion exchange membrane (e.g., cation exchange membrane (CEM), anion exchange membrane (AEM), proton exchange membrane (PEM), and / or the like). Furthermore, in some cases, the MEA sample may be coupled with a counter electrode. As described in more details below, the MEA sample secured between the baseplate and the retention plate of the MEA cell may, while being a part of the MEA instrument, undergo one or more experiments to evaluate the corresponding combination of electrocatalysts and ion exchange membranes. For example, in some cases, the MEA sample may undergo one or more experiments to evaluate the electrocatalyst activity and / or durability of the constituent electrocatalysts (e.g., anode electrocatalyst, cathode electrocatalyst, and / or the like). Alternatively and / or additionally, the one or more experiments may evaluate the electrocatalyst activity and / or durability of these electrocatalysts in combination with the specific type of polymer exchange membrane included in the MEA sample.

[0109] At 604, the robot may be further operated to couple the MEA cell including the first MEA sample with a main body of an MEA instrument. In some example embodiments, upon25127389798v 1Attorney Ref.: VL97015-W1 / 014722-0006-228 (101696.228006)assembling the MEA cell, the robot may be further operated to couple the MEA cell with a main body of an MEA instrument. For example, in some cases, the main body may include a mounting fixture configured to secure the coupling between the main body and the MEA cell. Examples of the mounting fixture may include one or more of snaps, latches, grooves, threading, magnets, clips, quick connect, sliding mechanisms, quarter turn release, friction fit, and / or the like. In some cases, the main body of the MEA instrument may be configured to deliver at least a counter electrolyte to the counter electrode coupled with the MEA sample (e.g., the working electrode and the electrolyte) secured between the baseplate and retention plate of the MEA cell. For example, in some cases, the main body of the MEA instrument may include a chamber in fluid communication with the counter electrode. The counter electrode may be exposed to a counter electrolyte that flow through the chamber by entering through an electrolyte inlet in the main body and existing through one or more electrolyte outlets. As described in more details below, when the MEA cell is coupled with the main body of the MEA instrument, a first force may be applied against a sealing member providing a fluidic seal around the MEA sample while a second force may be applied to compress the counter electrode against the MEA sample.

[0110] At 606, upon completing a first experiment evaluating the first MEA sample, operating the robot to decouple the MEA cell from the main body of the MEA instrument. In some example embodiments, the robot may be operated to decouple the MEA cell from the main body of the MEA instrument upon completion of the experiment evaluating the MEA sample secured between the baseplate and the retention plate of the MEA cell. In some cases, the MEA cell may be decoupled from the main body by at least operating the robot to disengage the MEA cell from the mounting fixture included in the main body. As described in more details below, in some cases, the MEA cell may be decoupled from the main body of the MEA instrument in order to26127389798v 1Attorney Ref.: VL97015-W1 / 014722-0006-228 (101696.228006)replace the MEA sample in the MEA cell with another MEA sample. In some cases, the other MEA sample may include a different working electrode and / or electrolyte. In some cases, the main body of the MEA cell may undergo cleaning, for example, to remove remnants of reactants (e g., fuel, oxidants, and / or the like) and / or electrolytes from one or more previous experiments, before interfacing with the other MEA sample. In some cases, the other MEA sample may, upon being coupled with the main body of the MEA instrument, undergo one or more experiments to evaluate the constituent combination of electrocatalysts and ion exchange membranes.

[0111] At 608, the robot may be operated to disassemble the MEA cell to remove the first MEA sample. In some example embodiments, upon decoupling the MEA cell from the main body of the MEA instrument, the robot may be operated to disassemble the MEA cell such that the MEA sample can be removed therefrom. For example, in some cases, the disassembly of the MEA cell may include operating the robot to decouple the baseplate from the retention plate of the MEA cell. In some cases, the decoupling of the baseplate from the retention plate may include disengaging the one or more fasteners securing the coupling between the baseplate and the retention plate. In some cases, the disassembly of the MEA cell may further include operating the robot to remove the MEA sample, which may be positioned atop of a flow plate disposed in the baseplate of the MEA cell. In some cases, the disassembly of the MEA cell may include deactivating one or more springs (or linear actuators) acting against the MEA cell to apply the aforementioned second force compressing the counter electrode against the MEA sample. Moreover, in some cases, the disassembled MEA cell (or portions thereof) may undergo cleaning in order to remove remnants of reactants (e.g., fuel, oxidants, and / or the like) and / or electrolytes from one or more previous experiments prior to be used to secure another MEA sample.27127389798v 1Attorney Ref.: VL97015-W1 / 014722-0006-228 (101696.228006)

[0112] At 610, the robot may be operated to reassemble the MEA cell to secure, between the baseplate and the retention plate of the MEA cell, a second MEA sample. In some example embodiments, the MEA cell may be reassembled to secure, between the baseplate and the retention plate of the MEA cell, the aforementioned other MEA sample. For example, in some cases, the reassembly of the MEA cell may include operating the robot to position the other MEA sample atop the flow plate in the baseplate. Furthermore, in some cases, the reassembly of the MEA cell may include operating the robot the couple the baseplate with the retention plate while the other MEA sample and the same counter electrode (or a different counter electrode) is interposed therebetween. In some cases, the coupling of the baseplate with the retention plate may include operating the robot to align, using the one or more alignment features, the baseplate with the retention plate. Moreover, in some cases, the coupling of the baseplate with the retention plate may include operating the robot to engage the one or more fasteners securing the coupling between the baseplate and the retention plate.

[0113] At 612, the robot may be operated to couple the MEA cell including the second MEA sample with the main body of the MEA instrument in order to conduct a second experiment evaluating the second MEA sample. In some example embodiments, upon reassembly of the MEA cell to secure the other MEA sample between the baseplate and the retention plate, the robot may be operated to couple the MEA cell with the main body of the MEA instrument. In some cases, to couple the MEA cell with the main body of the MEA instrument, the robot may be operated to engage the MEA cell with the mounting fixture in the main body of the MEA instrument. As noted, the mounting fixture may secure the coupling between the MEA cell and the main body of the MEA instrument. Moreover, when the MEA cell is coupled with the main body of the MEA instrument, a first force may be applied against a sealing member providing a fluidic seal around28127389798v 1Attorney Ref.: VL97015-W1 / 014722-0006-228 (101696.228006)the other MEA sample while a second force may be applied to compress the counter electrode against the other MEA sample. In some cases, once the MEA cell is coupled with the main body of the MEA instrument, one or more additional experiments may be conducted to evaluate the other MEA sample. For example, in some cases, the one or more additional experiments may be performed to evaluate the electrocatalyst activity and / or durability of the electrocatalysts (e.g., anode electrocatalyst, cathode electrocatalyst, and / or the like) included in the other MEA sample. Alternatively and / or additionally, the one or more additional experiments may be performed to evaluate the electrocatalyst activity and / or durability of the electrocatalysts (e.g., anode electrocatalyst, cathode electrocatalyst, and / or the like) in combination with the specific type of polymer exchange membrane included in the other MEA sample.

[0114] FIG. 7 depicts a flowchart illustrating an example of a process 700 for robotic assembly of a membrane electrode assembly (MEA) instrument, in accordance with some example embodiments. Referring to FIGS. 1-7, in some cases, the process 700 may be performed to robotically assemble a membrane electrode assembly (MEA) cell, such as the MEA cell 120 shown in FIGS. 1-5, that is then robotically coupled with the main body of an MEA instrument. In some cases, the process 700 may implement operations 602 and / or 610 of the process 600 shown in FIG.6. In some cases, robotic assembly of an MEA cell, such as the example of the MEA cell 120 shown in FIGS. 1-5, may be less time consuming and resource intensive than conventional methodologies for doing so. As such, robotic assembly of an MEA cell, such as example of the MEA cell 120 shown in FIGS. 1-5, may increase the throughput of experiments evaluating different combinations of cathodic electrocatalysts, anodic electrocatalysts, and ion exchange membranes. For example, in some cases, the MEA cell 120 may be quickly disassembled and assembled in order to replace a first MEA sample having one combination of electrocatalysts and29127389798v 1Attorney Ref.: VL97015-W1 / 014722-0006-228 (101696.228006)ion exchange membranes with a second MEA sample having a different combination of electrocatalysts and ion exchange membranes.

[0115] At 702, a robot may be operated to position an membrane electrode assembly (MEA) sample including a working electrode and an electrolyte on a baseplate of an MEA cell. In some example embodiments, the assembly of an MEA cell including a baseplate and a retention plate may include operating a robot to position an MEA sample including a working electrode and an electrolyte (e.g., a polymer electrolyte, a solid electrolyte, an immobilized nonaqueous electrolyte, and / or the like) on the baseplate of the MEA cell. In some cases, the MEA cell may further include a flow plate configured to control the flow of one or more reactants (e.g., fuel, oxidant, and / or the like) to the MEA sample. In some cases, the flow plate may be further configured to provide an electrical interface to the working electrode in the MEA sample. Accordingly, in some cases, the MEA sample positioned on the baseplate may be positioned atop of the flow plate. For example, in some cases, the robot may be operated to position the MEA sample atop of the flow plate such that the MEA sample is in contact with one or more flow channels (e.g., serpentine channel and / or the like) in the flow plate. Doing so may ensure that the MEA sample is positioned to be exposed to the one or more reactants traveling through the one or more flow channels during subsequent experiments to evaluate the MEA sample.

[0116] At 704, the robot may be operated to couple the baseplate with a retention plate in order to secure, between the baseplate and the retention plate, the MEA sample and a counter electrode. In some example embodiments, with the MEA sample positioned on the baseplate of the MEA cell (e.g., atop the flow plate), the robot may be operated to couple the baseplate with the retention plate. In some cases, the coupling of the baseplate with the retention plate may include operating the robot to align, using one or more alignment members (e.g., pins, rods, and / or30127389798v 1Attorney Ref.: VL97015-W1 / 014722-0006-228 (101696.228006)the like), the baseplate with the retention plate. Furthermore, in some cases, the coupling of the baseplate with the retention plate may include operating the robot to engage one or more fasteners configured to secure the coupling between the baseplate and the retention plate. In some cases, the one or more alignment members may also serve as the one or more fasteners, in which case the one or more alignment members may also secure the coupling between the retention plate and the baseplate once the baseplate is aligned and coupled with the retention plate.

[0117] At 706, the robot may be operated to apply a first force against at least one sealing member providing a fluidic seal around the MEA sample. In some example embodiments, the MEA cell may be subjected to two separate and independently controlled forces with user-determined magnitudes. For example, in some cases, a first force may be applied against a sealing member providing a fluidic seal around the MEA sample in the MEA cell. In some cases, the first force may be controlled by the robot being operated to control a stage (e.g., a spring-loaded stage) coupled with a main body of the MEA instrument. For instance, in some cases, the stage may be lowered against the MEA sample in order to engage the sealing member to provide, around the MEA sample, a fluidic seal that prevents the egress of the one or more reactants (e.g., fuel, oxidant, and / or the like) and / or the ingress of contaminants (e.g., working electrolyte, reference electrolyte, and / or the like). Moreover, in some cases, the first force applied against the sealing member may be a minimum compression force having a lesser magnitude than a second force compressing the MEA sample against the counter electrode. Accordingly, as described in more details below, the first force against the sealing member and the second force compressing the MEA sample against the counter electrode may be independent and separately controlled forces such that the first force and the second force may have different magnitudes.31127389798v 1Attorney Ref.: VL97015-W1 / 014722-0006-228 (101696.228006)

[0118] At 708, the robot may be operated to apply a second force compressing the MEA sample against the counter electrode. In some example embodiments, in addition to the first force applied against the sealing member providing the fluidic seal around the MEA sample, the MEA cell may be subjected to a second force compressing the MEA sample against a counter electrode, which may also be disposed at least partially in the MEA cell (e.g., in a chamber in the retention plate) when the MEA cell is coupled with a main body of an MEA instrument. In some cases, the second force may be controlled by the robot controlling one or more springs (or linear actuators). For example, in some cases, the MEA cell may be coupled with a first spring (or linear actuator) acting against the MEA cell while a second spring (or linear actuator) in the main body of the MEA instrument may act against the counter electrode to apply a counter force that displaces the counter electrode against the MEA sample. In some cases, the counter electrode may be a piece of flat and porous material (e.g., metallic material) that is smaller in one or more dimensions than the flow plate in order to enable the second force to be uniformly applied against the surface of the MEA sample. Moreover, in some cases, the flow of the counter electrolyte through the counter electrode may for one triple phase boundary while the flow of reactants through the working electrode may form another triple phase boundary.

[0119] In the descriptions above and in the claims, phrases such as “at least one of’ or “one or more of’ may occur followed by a conjunctive list of elements or features. The term “and / or” may also occur in a list of two or more elements or features. Unless otherwise implicitly or explicitly contradicted by the context in which it used, such a phrase is intended to mean any of the listed elements or features individually or any of the recited elements or features in combination with any of the other recited elements or features. For example, the phrases “at least one of A and B;” “one or more of A and B;” and “A and / or B” are each intended to mean “A alone, B alone, or32127389798v 1Attorney Ref.: VL97015-W1 / 014722-0006-228 (101696.228006)A and B together.” A similar interpretation is also intended for lists including three or more items. For example, the phrases “at least one of A, B, and C;” “one or more of A, B, and C;” and “A, B, and / or C” are each intended to mean “A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, or A and B and C together.” Use of the term “based on,” above and in the claims is intended to mean, “based at least in part on,” such that an unrecited feature or element is also permissible.

[0120] The subject matter described herein can be embodied in systems, apparatus, methods, and / or articles depending on the desired configuration. The implementations set forth in the foregoing description do not represent all implementations consistent with the subject matter described herein. Instead, they are merely some examples consistent with aspects related to the described subject matter. Although a few variations have been described in detail above, other modifications or additions are possible. In particular, further features and / or variations can be provided in addition to those set forth herein. For example, the implementations described above can be directed to various combinations and subcombinations of the disclosed features and / or combinations and subcombinations of several further features disclosed above. In addition, the logic flows depicted in the accompanying figures and / or described herein do not necessarily require the particular order shown, or sequential order, to achieve desirable results. Other implementations may be within the scope of the following claims.33127389798v 1

Claims

Attorney Ref.: VL97015-W1 / 014722-0006-228 (101696.228006)CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A membrane electrode assembly (MEA) instrument, comprising:a main body configured to deliver a liquid electrolyte to a counter electrode; and an MEA cell configured to be removably coupled with the main body by robotic operations, wherein the MEA cell includes an MEA sample that is compressed against the counter electrode when the MEA cell is coupled with the main body.

2. The MEA instrument of claim 1, wherein the MEA sample includes a working electrode, an electrolyte, and a catalyst interposed between the working electrode and the electrolyte.

3. The MEA instrument of any of claims 1 to 2, wherein the MEA cell comprises a baseplate and a retention plate configured to be removably coupled with the baseplate, and wherein the baseplate and the retention plate are further configured to secure the MEA sample therebetween.

4. The MEA instrument of claim 3, wherein the baseplate is configured to receive the MEA sample by robotic operations.

5. The MEA instrument of any of claims 3 to 4, wherein the baseplate and the retention plate are configured to be aligned and coupled by robotic operations.

6. The MEA instrument of any of claims 1 to 5, wherein the MEA cell further includes a flow plate configured to control a flow of one or more reactants to the MEA sample.

7. The MEA instrument of claim 6, wherein the flow plate is further configured to provide an electrical interface to a working electrode comprising the MEA sample.34127389798v 1Attorney Ref.: VL97015-W1 / 014722-0006-228 (101696.228006)8. The MEA instrument of any of claims 1 to 7, wherein coupling the MEA cell with the main body applies a first force compressing the MEA sample against the counter electrode.

9. The MEA instrument of claim 8, wherein the coupling of the MEA cell with the main body further applies a second force against at least one sealing member around the MEA sample in the MEA cell.

10. The MEA instrument of claim 9, wherein the first force and the second force are independent and separately controlled forces with user-determined magnitudes.

11. A membrane electrode assembly (MEA) cell adapted for robotic assembly, comprising:a baseplate configured to receive an MEA sample comprising a working electrode and an electrolyte;a retention plate configured to be removably coupled with the baseplate, wherein the coupling of the baseplate and the retention plate secures, between the baseplate and the retention plate, the MEA sample and a counter electrode; anda flow plate configured to control a flow of one or more reactants to the MEA sample, wherein the MEA cell is configured to be removably coupled with a main body adapted to apply a force compressing the MEA sample against the counter electrode.

12. The MEA cell of claim 11, wherein the MEA sample is positioned with an electrically conductive surface of the MEA sample contacting one or more reactant channels in the flow plate.

13. The MEA cell of any of claims 11 to 12, wherein the flow plate is further configured to provide an electrical interface to the working electrode.

14. The MEA cell of any of claims 11 to 13, further comprising:35127389798v 1Attorney Ref.: VL97015-W1 / 014722-0006-228 (101696.228006)at least one sealing member to provide a fluidic seal around the MEA sample when the baseplate is coupled with the retention plate.

15. The MEA cell of claim 14, wherein the main body is coupled with a spring loaded stage that acts upon the main body to apply a different force against the at least one sealing member when the MEA cell is coupled with the main body.

16. The MEA cell of any of claims 14 to 15, wherein the force compressing the MEA sample against the counter electrode is independent and controlled separately from the different force against the at least one sealing member.

17. The MEA cell of any of claims 14 to 16, wherein the at least one sealing member includes a gasket between the MEA sample, the baseplate, and the retention plate.

18. The MEA cell of any of claims 11 to 17, wherein the MEA cell is further configured to be removably coupled with a linear actuator or spring that acts upon the MEA cell to compress the MEA sample against the counter electrode when the MEA cell is coupled with the main body.

19. The MEA cell of claim 18, wherein the main body includes an additional linear actuator or spring that displaces the counter electrode towards the MEA sample to apply a counter force against the MEA sample when the MEA cell is coupled with the main body.

20. The MEA cell of any of claims 11 to 19, wherein the counter electrode is smaller in dimensions than the flow plate to increase a uniformity in the force applied across a surface of the MEA sample.

21. The MEA cell of any of claims 11 to 20, wherein coupling the MEA cell with the main body includes aligning the MEA sample on the flow plate with the counter electrode.36127389798v 1Attorney Ref.: VL97015-W1 / 014722-0006-228 (101696.228006)22. The MEA cell of any of claims 11 to 21 , wherein the counter electrode is positioned to be in fluid communication with a chamber in the main body that receives a liquid electrolyte from an electrolyte inlet in the main body.

23. The MEA cell of claim 22, wherein the counter electrode is porous to permit fluid flow therethrough.

24. The MEA cell of any of claims 11 to 23, further comprising:one or more flow channels is configured to deliver an electrolyte to a reference electrode.

25. The MEA cell of claim 24, further comprising:at least one sealing member is further configured to provide a fluidic seal around the reference electrode.

26. The MEA cell of claim 25, wherein the one or more flow channels are disposed at least partially within the baseplate and / or the retention plate.

27. The MEA cell of any of claims 11 to 26, wherein the retention plate includes a chamber, and wherein the counter electrode and / or the MEA sample are disposed at least partially inside the chamber when the MEA cell is coupled with the main body.

28. The MEA cell of claim 27, further comprising:at least one sealing member configured to provide a fluidic seal around a perimeter of the chamber.

29. The MEA cell of any of claims 11 to 28, wherein the MEA sample includes a catalyst interposed between the working electrode and the electrolyte.

30. The MEA cell of claim 29, wherein the flow of the one or more reactants to the MEA sample forms a first triple phase boundary between the electrolyte, the one or more reactants, and the catalyst.37127389798v 1Attorney Ref.: VL97015-W1 / 014722-0006-228 (101696.228006)31. The MEA cell of any of claims 29 to 30, wherein the catalyst comprises one or more metal organic frameworks (MOFs).

32. The MEA cell of any of claims 11 to 31, wherein the electrolyte is a polymer electrolyte, a solid electrolyte, or an immobilized nonaqueous electrolyte.

33. The MEA cell of any of claims 11 to 32, further comprising:one or more fasteners configured to secure the coupling between the retention plate and the baseplate.

34. The MEA cell of claim 33, wherein the one or more fasteners comprise one or more magnets.

35. The MEA cell of any of claims 11 to 34, further comprising:one or more alignment members configured to align the retention plate and the baseplate during the coupling of the retention plate and the baseplate.

36. The MEA cells of claim 35, wherein the one or more alignment members comprise one or more pins.

37. The MEA cell of any of claims 35 to 36, wherein the one or more alignment members are further configured to secure the coupling between the retention plate and the baseplate.

38. The MEA cell of any of claims 11 to 37, wherein the baseplate includes one or more electrical contacts for the working electrode.

39. The MEA cell of any of claims 11 to 38, wherein the flow plate includes a serpentine flow pattern.38127389798v 1Attorney Ref.: VL97015-W1 / 014722-0006-228 (101696.228006)40. The MEA cell of claim 39, wherein the flow plate further includes an inlet for the one or more reactants to enter the flow plate and an outlet for the one or more reactants to exit the flow plate.

41. A membrane electrode assembly (MEA) cell adapted for robotic assembly, comprising:a baseplate configured to receive an MEA sample comprising a working electrode and an electrolyte;a retention plate configured to be removably coupled with the baseplate, wherein the coupling of the baseplate and the retention plate secures, between the baseplate and the retention plate, the MEA sample and a counter electrode; anda flow plate positioned below the MEA sample in the baseplate, wherein the flow plate is configured to control a flow of one or more reactants to the MEA sample,wherein the MEA cell is configured to be removably coupled with a main body adapted to deliver a liquid electrolyte to the counter electrode.

42. The MEA cell of claim 41, further comprising:at least one sealing member to provide a fluidic seal around the MEA sample when the baseplate is coupled with the retention plate.

43. The MEA cell of any of claims 41 to 42, wherein the main body is coupled with a spring loaded stage that acts upon the main body to apply a force against the at least one sealing member when the MEA cell is coupled with the main body.

44. The MEA cell of any of claims 41 to 43, wherein the MEA cell is further configured to be removably coupled with a linear actuator or spring that acts upon the MEA cell39127389798v 1Attorney Ref.: VL97015-W1 / 014722-0006-228 (101696.228006)to compress the MEA sample against the counter electrode when the MEA cell is coupled with the main body.

45. The MEA cell of claim 44, wherein the main body includes an additional linear actuator or spring that displaces the counter electrode towards the MEA sample to apply a counter force against the MEA sample when the MEA cell is coupled with the main body.

46. A method for robotic assembly of a membrane electrode assembly (MEA) instrument, the method comprising operating a robot to at least:position, on a baseplate, an MEA sample comprising a working electrode and an electrolyte, wherein the MEA sample is positioned atop a flow plate configured to control a flow of one or more reactants to the MEA sample;couple the baseplate with a retention plate, wherein the coupling of the baseplate and the retention plate secures, between the baseplate and the retention plate, the MEA sample and a counter electrode, and wherein the coupling of the baseplate and the retention plate forms an MEA cell in which at least one sealing member disposed between the baseplate and the retention plate provides a fluidic seal around the MEA sample; andapply a first force against the at least one sealing member and a second force compressing the MEA sample against the counter electrode.

47. The method of claim 46, wherein the robot is further operated to position the MEA sample with an electrically conductive surface of the MEA sample contacting one or more reactant channels in the flow plate.

48. The method of any of claims 46 to 47, wherein the robot is further operated to couple the MEA cell with a main body.40127389798v 1Attorney Ref.: VL97015-W1 / 014722-0006-228 (101696.228006)49. The method of claim 48, wherein the main body comprises a chamber in fluid communication with the counter electrode, and wherein a liquid electrolyte is delivered to the counter electrode by entering the chamber through the electrolyte inlet.

50. The method of any of claims 48 to 49, wherein the retention plate includes a chamber, and wherein the coupling of the MEA cell with the main body includes disposing the counter electrode and / or the MEA sample at least partially inside the chamber.

51. The method of claim 50, wherein the at least one sealing member further provides a fluidic seal between the chamber and the counter electrode.

52. The method of any of claims 48 to 51, wherein the robot is further operated to control a spring loaded stage coupled with the main body to control the first force applied against the at least one sealing member.

53. The method of any of claims 46 to 52, wherein the robot is further operated to control a linear actuator or spring acting on the MEA cell to control the second force applied to compress the MEA sample against the counter electrode.

54. The method of claim 53, wherein the main body includes an additional spring or linear actuator that displaces the counter electrode towards the MEA sample to apply a counter force against the MEA sample when the MEA cell is coupled with the main body.

55. The method of any of claims 46 to 54, wherein the first force and the second force are independent, separately controlled forces with user-determined magnitudes.

56. The method of any of claims 46 to 55, wherein the coupling of the retention plate and the baseplate includes securing the coupling with one or more fasteners.41127389798v 1Attorney Ref.: VL97015-W1 / 014722-0006-228 (101696.228006)57. The method of any of claims 46 to 56, wherein the coupling of the baseplate and the retention plate includes aligning the baseplate and the retention plate with one or more alignment members.

58. The method of any of claims 46 to 57, wherein the MEA sample includes a catalyst interposed between the working electrode and the electrolyte.

59. The method of claim 58, wherein the catalyst comprises one or more metal organic frameworks (MOFs).

60. The method of any of claims 46 to 59, wherein the electrolyte is a polymer electrolyte, a solid electrolyte, or an immobilized nonaqueous electrolyte.

61. A membrane electrode assembly (MEA) instrument, comprising:a main body having means for delivering a liquid electrolyte to a counter electrode; and an MEA cell having means for removably coupling the MEA cell with the main body by robotic operations, wherein the MEA cell further includes means for compressing an MEA sample against the counter electrode when the MEA cell is coupled with the main body.

62. A membrane electrode assembly (MEA) cell adapted for robotic assembly, comprising:means for securing a counter electrode and an MEA sample comprising a working electrode and an electrolyte;means for controlling a flow of one or more reactants to the MEA sample; and means for removably coupling the MEA cell with a main body adapted to apply a force compressing the MEA sample against the counter electrode.

63. A membrane electrode assembly (MEA) cell adapted for robotic assembly, comprising:42127389798v 1Attorney Ref.: VL97015-W1 / 014722-0006-228 (101696.228006)means for securing a counter electrode and an MEA sample comprising a working electrode and an electrolyte;means for controlling a flow of one or more reactants to the MEA sample; and means for removably coupling the MEA cell with a main body adapted to deliver a liquid electrolyte to the counter electrode.43127389798v 1

Images