Gas Diffusion Media
Freudenberg H14, H15 and H23 carbon papers, carbon cloths and MPL-coated GDL materials.
A high-performance carbon-paper GDL platform developed for proton-exchange-membrane fuel cells, high-humidity stationary systems and demanding heavy-duty fuel-cell applications.
In a proton-exchange-membrane fuel cell, the gas diffusion layer performs much more than electrical conduction. It also controls reactant-gas transport, liquid-water removal, heat distribution and mechanical support for the catalyst layer.
The Freudenberg® H15 series combines a high-quality carbon-fiber paper substrate with PTFE hydrophobic treatment and a single-sided microporous layer. This structure is designed to balance through-plane conductivity, gas permeability, water management and mechanical durability.
Compared with conventional research-grade carbon papers, the H15 series is positioned for high-power PEM fuel cells, continuously operated CHP systems, long-life automotive stacks and heavy-duty fuel-cell platforms.
SCI Materials Hub supplies research-size, standard-size and full-sheet fuel-cell materials for universities, research institutes and industrial development teams.
Freudenberg H14, H15 and H23 carbon papers, carbon cloths and MPL-coated GDL materials.
PEM, AEM and bipolar membranes with Nafion®, Fumion®, PiperION® and related ionomer systems.
Pt/C, IrO₂, RuO₂ and other catalysts for fuel cells, electrolysis and CO₂ electroreduction.
Custom cutting, catalyst coating, MEA preparation and material selection support.
Conductive carbon-fiber substrate with controlled thickness and mechanical consistency.
Microporous surface designed to improve catalyst-layer contact and gas distribution.
Hydrophobic treatment supports liquid-water removal and reduces electrode flooding.
Controlled through-plane resistance helps reduce the ohmic contribution of the GDL.
Mechanical structure suitable for controlled stack compression and gasket matching.
Carbon-fiber network provides structural support for the catalyst layer and flow-field interface.
Suitable for fuel-cell systems requiring stable continuous operation and repeated load cycling.
Designed for repeatable electrode preparation and stack-level material integration.
The values below are organized using mm, g/m², mΩ·cm² and N/cm for easier engineering comparison.
| Grade | Thickness | Basis Weight | Through-Plane Resistance | Gas Permeability | Tensile Strength | PTFE | MPL |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| H15C13 | 0.195 mm | 93 g/m² | 9.0 mΩ·cm² | 2.7 μm² at 1 MPa | >14 N/cm | Yes | Single-sided |
| H15C14 | 0.191 mm | 91 g/m² | 7.3 mΩ·cm² | Not published | 17.2 N/cm | Yes | Single-sided |
| H15C15 | 0.155 mm at 1 MPa | Not published | 7.5 mΩ·cm² at 1 MPa | Gurley 18 s | Not published | Yes | Single-sided |
H15C14 is identified in this guide as the updated designation associated with the former H15CX483 grade.
Where basis weight, tensile strength or gas-permeability data are not available, no estimated values have been added.
Permeability in μm² and Gurley time in seconds are based on different test methods and should not be directly converted.
The thickest grade in the group, providing greater mechanical buffering and water-management capacity for humidified, continuously operated systems.
Combines moderate thickness, low through-plane resistance and strong mechanical performance. It is the most broadly applicable grade in the H15 group.
The thinnest H15 grade listed here, supporting reduced electrical path length and compact high-power stack designs.
Thickness affects electrical path length, compression, flow-field contact, water storage and stack assembly tolerance. A thinner GDL can reduce ohmic loss, while a thicker substrate can provide greater mechanical buffering and water capacity.
Basis weight represents the carbon-fiber mass per unit area. Higher basis weight can improve conductive-network density, mechanical strength and durability, although it may also affect pore volume and gas transport.
Through-plane resistance contributes to the electrical loss between the catalyst layer, GDL and bipolar plate. Compression, surface contact and testing pressure must be considered when comparing values.
Gas permeability influences reactant supply, concentration polarization, high-current-density performance and liquid-water discharge. Values stated in μm² and Gurley seconds come from different measurement systems.
The single-sided MPL provides a smoother interface for catalyst coating, helps distribute gases and liquid water, reduces local flooding and supports more uniform current-density distribution.
PTFE treatment helps preserve gas pathways by limiting liquid-water retention. This is particularly important in high-humidity, continuous-operation and stationary CHP systems.
Final selection should also consider operating humidity, pressure, catalyst loading, gas stoichiometry, flow-field geometry and target GDL compression.
Prepare a catalyst ink and spray it directly onto the MPL side of the H15 carbon paper.
Apply the catalyst layer directly to the membrane, dry it and assemble it with the H15 GDL to form a complete MEA.
Suitable for larger-area electrodes, pilot-scale studies and controlled catalyst-layer thickness development.
For standard fuel-cell and gas-diffusion-electrode assembly, the smooth MPL-coated surface should face the catalyst layer. The fibrous substrate surface should face the flow field or bipolar plate.
| Application | Recommended Compression | Primary Consideration |
|---|---|---|
| PEMFC | 20–30% | Balance contact resistance and gas transport |
| AEMFC | 20–30% | Optimize water transport and electrode contact |
| CO₂ Electroreduction | 15–25% | Preserve gas pathways and control electrolyte intrusion |
| Water Electrolysis | Application-dependent | Match compression to cell and flow-field design |
Freudenberg H15 carbon paper can generally be used directly. Optional rapid IPA rinsing, nitrogen blowing or vacuum drying may be used for specific experiments. Acid washing, high-temperature oxidation and prolonged sonication may damage the MPL or reduce hydrophobic performance.
| Series | Typical Thickness Range | Main Characteristics | Recommended Applications |
|---|---|---|---|
| H14 Series | Approximately 0.145–0.185 mm | Thin structure, low resistance and rapid response | PEMFC, automotive fuel cells and research development |
| H15 Series | Approximately 0.155–0.195 mm | High-humidity stability, durability and heavy-duty options | CHP, heavy trucks, buses, marine and rail applications |
| H23 Series | Approximately 0.210–0.230 mm | Greater mechanical strength and larger pore volume | Large-area stacks and long-duration durable systems |
For general fuel-cell research, consider H14C14, H14C15 or H15C14. For automotive systems, consider H14C10, H14C14 or H15C14. For high-humidity CHP, consider H15C13. For heavy-duty applications, consider H15C15. For large-area, high-durability stacks, evaluate the H23 series.
| Grade | 5 × 5 cm | 10 × 10 cm | 20 × 20 cm | Full Sheet |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| H15C13 | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| H15C14 | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| H15C15 | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
H15C13 is the thicker high-humidity grade for stationary and CHP systems. H15C14 provides the most balanced general performance. H15C15 is the thinnest grade and is positioned for heavy-duty, high-power-density fuel-cell systems.
H15C14 is identified in this guide as the updated designation associated with the former H15CX483 grade. Current product documentation should be checked when confirming procurement specifications.
Its thinner structure can help reduce the GDL electrical path length and support compact, high-power stack designs. It is positioned for demanding systems requiring durability and stable high-load operation.
Yes. In standard assembly, the MPL side should face the catalyst layer to improve interface contact, gas distribution, catalyst-layer support and water management.
Yes. A catalyst layer can be applied directly to the MPL surface to prepare a gas diffusion electrode for fuel-cell, CO₂RR and selected electrolysis experiments.
Catalyst ink is normally applied to the smoother MPL-coated surface because it provides a more uniform interface for catalyst adhesion and current distribution.
Cleaning is generally unnecessary. When required, rapid high-purity IPA rinsing, nitrogen blowing or vacuum drying may be used. Strong oxidants, concentrated acids and concentrated alkalis should be avoided.
Prolonged ultrasonication is not recommended because it may detach the MPL, damage carbon fibers or alter the PTFE-treated surface. When necessary, low-power water-bath sonication should be limited to a short duration.
A small amount of surface powder may occur during cutting or handling. Large-area delamination may indicate transportation damage, excessive bending, friction or ultrasonic treatment.
Reuse may be possible for exploratory tests if the GDL has no cracks, severe permanent compression, MPL damage or catalyst contamination. New material is recommended for formal performance comparisons.
No. Excessive compression reduces pore volume, increases mass-transport resistance, impairs water removal and may cause permanent deformation. A range of approximately 20–30% is commonly used for PEMFC and AEMFC assembly.
Folding is not recommended. Sharp bending can break carbon fibers, crack the MPL and increase local electrical resistance. Flat packaging or large-radius rolling is preferred.
Store at room temperature in a dry, clean and sealed package. Avoid sunlight, heavy pressure, sharp objects and contaminated environments.
Typical compatible systems include Pt/C, PtCo/C, PtNi/C, Fe–N–C catalysts and CO₂RR catalysts such as Ag, Cu and Sn. IrO₂ and RuO₂ may be evaluated in appropriate experimental electrode structures.
The substrate may be used with Nafion®, Fumion® FAA, PiperION®, Sustainion® and other PEM or AEM ionomer systems, subject to ink and electrode optimization.
It normally does not require acid washing, thermal activation or plasma treatment. Such treatments may alter the MPL and hydrophobic properties.
Conductivity depends on substrate thickness, carbon-fiber structure, porosity, MPL formulation, surface contact and the compression pressure used during testing.
The values come from different test methods. Permeability in μm² represents an intrinsic flow property, while Gurley time describes the time required for a defined air volume to pass through the material. They should not be directly compared without considering the test standard.
H15C14 is the general starting point for fuel-cell research and automotive-oriented development. H15C13 is preferred for high-humidity stationary operation, while H15C15 is intended for heavy-duty and high-power-density systems.
Standard research-size gas diffusion layers supplied by SCI Materials Hub for fuel-cell and electrochemical applications.
Select your preferred marketplace to view available products, shipping options and order information.
Reference retail prices for standard single-sheet research sizes.
| Grade | 5 × 5 cm | 10 × 10 cm | 20 × 20 cm |
|---|---|---|---|
| H15C13 | US$16.00 | US$50.00 | US$160.00 |
| H15C14 | US$16.00 | US$50.00 | US$160.00 |
| H15C15 | US$16.00 | US$50.00 | US$160.00 |
Contact our team for full sheets, bulk purchasing, custom cutting, institutional orders and long-term supply projects.
Partial references citing our materials (from Google Scholar)
Carbon Dioxide Reduction
1. ACS Nano Strain Relaxation in Metal Alloy Catalysts Steers the Product Selectivity of Electrocatalytic CO2 Reduction
The bipolar membrane (Fumasep FBM) in this paper was purchased from SCI Materials Hub, which was used in rechargeable Zn-CO2 battery tests. The authors reported a strain relaxation strategy to determine lattice strains in bimetal MNi alloys (M = Pd, Ag, and Au) and realized an outstanding CO2-to-CO Faradaic efficiency of 96.6% with outstanding activity and durability toward a Zn-CO2 battery.
2. Front. Chem. Boosting Electrochemical Carbon Dioxide Reduction on Atomically Dispersed Nickel Catalyst
In this paper, Vulcan XC-72R was purchased from SCI Materials Hub. Vulcan XC 72R carbon is the most common catalyst support used in the anode and cathode electrodes of Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cells (PEMFC), Direct Methanol Fuel Cells (DMFC), Alkaline Fuel Cells (AFC), Microbial Fuel Cells (MFC), Phosphoric Acid Fuel Cells (PAFC), and many more!
3. Adv. Mater. Partially Nitrided Ni Nanoclusters Achieve Energy-Efficient Electrocatalytic CO2 Reduction to CO at Ultralow Overpotential
An AEM membrane (Sustainion X37-50 Grade RT, purchased from SCI Materials Hub) was activated in 1 M KOH for 24 h, washed with ultra-purity water prior to use.
4. Adv. Funct. Mater. Nanoconfined Molecular Catalysts in Integrated Gas Diffusion Electrodes for High-Current-Density CO2 Electroreduction
In this paper (Supporting Information), an anion exchanged membrane (Fumasep FAB-PK-130 obtained from SCI Materials Hub (www.scimaterials.cn)) was used to separate the catholyte and anolyte chambers.
SCI Materials Hub: we also recommend our Fumasep FAB-PK-75 for the use in a flow cell.
5. Appl. Catal. B Efficient utilization of nickel single atoms for CO2 electroreduction by constructing 3D interconnected nitrogen-doped carbon tube network
In this paper, the Nafion 117 membrane was obtained from SCI Materials Hub.
In this paper, Proton exchange membrane (Nafion 117), Nafion D520, and Toray 060 carbon paper were purchased from SCI Materials Hub.
7. National Science Review Confinement of ionomer for electrocatalytic CO2 reduction reaction via efficient mass transfer pathways
An anion exchange membrane (PiperION-A15-HCO3) was obtained from SCI Materials Hub.
8. Catalysis Communications Facilitating CO2 electroreduction to C2H4 through facile regulating {100} & {111} grain boundary of Cu2O
Carbon paper (TGPH060), membrane solution (Nafion D520), and ionic membrane (Nafion N117) were obtained from Wuhu Eryi Material Technology Co., Ltd (a company under SCI Materials Hub).
Batteries
1. J. Mater. Chem. A Blocking polysulfides with a Janus Fe3C/N-CNF@RGO electrode via physiochemical confinement and catalytic conversion for high-performance lithium–sulfur batteries
Graphene oxide (GO) in this paper was obtained from SCI Materials Hub. The authors introduced a Janus Fe3C/N-CNF@RGO electrode consisting of 1D Fe3C decorated N-doped carbon nanofibers (Fe3C/N-CNFs) side and 2D reduced graphene oxide (RGO) side as the free-standing carrier of Li2S6 catholyte to improve the overall electrochemical performance of Li-S batteries.
This paper used more than 10 kinds of materials from SCI Materials Hub and the authors gave detailed properity comparsion.
The commercial IEMs of Fumasep FAB-PK-130 and Nafion N117 were obtained from SCI Materials Hub.
Gas diffusion layers of GDL340 (CeTech) and SGL39BC (Sigracet) and Nafion dispersion (Nafion D520) were obtained from SCI Materials Hub.
Zn foil (100 mm thickness) and Zn powder were obtained from the SCI Materials Hub.
Commercial 20% Pt/C, 40% Pt/C and IrO2 catalysts were also obtained from SCI Materials Hub.
3. Journal of Energy Chemistry Vanadium oxide nanospheres encapsulated in N-doped carbon nanofibers with morphology and defect dual-engineering toward advanced aqueous zinc-ion batteries
In this paper, carbon cloth (W0S1011) was obtained from SCI Materials Hub. The flexible carbon cloth matrix guaranteed the stabilization of the electrode and improved the conductivity of the cathode.
4. Energy Storage Materials Defect-abundant commercializable 3D carbon papers for fabricating composite Li anode with high loading and long life
The 3D carbon paper (TGPH060 raw paper) were purchased from SCI Materials Hub.
5. Nanomaterials A Stable Rechargeable Aqueous Zn–Air Battery Enabled by Heterogeneous MoS2 Cathode Catalysts
Nafion D520 (5 wt%), and carbon paper (GDL340) were received from SCI-Materials-Hub.
Carbon cloth (W0S1011) and other electrochemical consumables required for air cathode were provided by SCI Materials Hub.
Oxygen Reduction Reaction
1. J. Chem. Eng. Superior Efficiency Hydrogen Peroxide Production in Acidic Media through Epoxy Group Adjacent to Co-O/C Active Centers on Carbon Black
In this paper, Vulcan XC 72 carbon black, ion membrane (Nafion N115, 127 μL), Nafion solution (D520, 5 wt%), and carbon paper (AvCarb GDS 2230 and Spectracarb 2050A-1050) were purchased from SCI Materials Hub.
2. Journal of Colloid and Interface Science Gaining insight into the impact of electronic property and interface electrostatic field on ORR kinetics in alloy engineering via theoretical prognostication and experimental validation
The 20 wt% Pt3M (M = Cr, Co, Cu, Pd, Sn, and Ir) were purchased from SCI Materials Hub. This work places emphasis on the kinetics of the ORR concerning Pt3M (M = Cr, Co, Cu, Pd, Sn, and Ir) catalysts, and integrates theoretical prognostication and experimental validation to illuminate the fundamental principles of alloy engineering.
Water Electrolysis
1. International Journal of Hydrogen Energy Gold as an efficient hydrogen isotope separation catalyst in proton exchange membrane water electrolysis
The cathodic catalysts of Pt/C (20 wt%, 2–3 nm) and Au/C (20 wt%, 4–5 nm) were purchased from SCI Materials Hub.
2. Small Science Silver Compositing Boosts Water Electrolysis Activity and Durability of RuO2 in a Proton-Exchange-Membrane Water Electrolyzer
Two fiber felts (0.35 mm thickness, SCI Materials Hub) were used as the porous transport layers at both the cathode and the anode.
3. Advanced Functional Materials Hierarchical Crystalline/Amorphous Heterostructure MoNi/NiMoOx for Electrochemical Hydrogen Evolution with Industry-Level Activity and Stability
Anion-exchange membrane (FAA-3-PK-130) was obtained from SCI Materials Hub website.
Fuel Cells
1. Polymer Sub-two-micron ultrathin proton exchange membrane with reinforced mechanical strength
Gas diffusion electrode (60% Pt/C, Carbon paper) was purchased from SCI Materials Hub.
Characterization
1. Chemical Engineering Journal Electrochemical reconstitution of Prussian blue analogue for coupling furfural electro-oxidation with photo-assisted hydrogen evolution reaction
An Au nanoparticle film was deposited on the total reflecting plane of a single reflection ATR crystal (SCI Materials Hub, Wuhu, China) via sputter coater.
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