Our expanded metal foil, also referred to as micromesh, is an extremely fine metal mesh which can be manufactured from a range of conductive metals – which is beneficial in both battery and fuel cells.

Manufactured from a single piece of material, through a process of stretching and slitting, our micromesh provides a greater surface area when compared to a solid metal sheet.

Where can expanded metal foils be used in a fuel cell?

Let’s start by looking at the technology…

Currently, the manufacture of polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) fuel cells or proton exchange membrane fuel cells, as it’s also known by, is showing promise in supporting the reduction of greenhouse gases.

These fuel cells are able to deliver high power density at a lower weight and volume compared to other fuel cells – which is particularly advantageous in the automotive sector, where savings need to be made in cost, material used and weight.

As it is inherently lightweight, flexible and strong, expanded metal foil is being adopted in a number of areas within fuel cells.

For instance, micromesh is beneficial in comparison to alternative materials as its micro apertures allow the free and consistent flow of gases such as hydrogen and oxygen which improves ion separation.

Micromesh is also a good current collector in fuel cells because of its high surface area. And the uniform apertures support conductivity between the electrodes.

Available in a range of materials such as copper and aluminium, our expanded metal foils offer a cost-effective alternative to silver whilst retaining the same conductive properties. 

Why expanded micromesh?

Our founder, John French Goulding, pioneered the process of manufacturing expanded metal in 1889 and since then we have continued to innovate and expand the possibilities of expanded metal mesh.

 The applications of micromesh are far reaching owing to its benefits of being:

• Lightweight, with a high strength to weight ratio
• Available in a range of materials such as copper, nickel, stainless steel, platinum and titanium
• Recyclable and no waste material produced in its manufacture

Our team has decades of experience in developing expanded metal solutions, which is applied to our design, manufacturing and finishing services.

To find out more about our micromesh products, or to discuss how micromesh can be used in your project, contact our team on +44 (0)1429 867 388 or email sales@exmesh.co.uk.