Polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells (PEM-FCs fed with hydrogen, methanol, or reformate) are already in (pre-) commercialization phases for certain applications such as portable electronics, where they successfully substitute for batteries. On the other hand, fuel cell implementation into stationary energy (combined heat and power systems) or traction/automotive systems is still prevented by tremendous materials and system problems.

Especially in the field of electrode and membrane materials, the fundamental understanding of the relation between chemistry and structure on the one hand side and functions and their degradation under realistic operation conditions on the other hand is urgently needed in order to pave the way for the development of materials with improved properties. One focus of this conference, therefore, will be on durability and degradation issues and new approaches which may have the potential to solve key problems in PEM-fuel cell technology. This includes also the question how the potential of next-generation nanomaterials can be technologically used in PEM FCs. But also system aspects will be addressed including a discussion of the pros and cons of other types of fuel cell.