Recent advances on materials and technologies of composite bipolar plate for proton exchange membrane fuel cell

Composite bipolar plates (CBP) composed of conductive carbon and flexible but insulated resin are considered promising skeletons in proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) with the characteristics of desirable mechanical and electrical conductivity properties, as well as chemical stability. However, the paradox of mechanical and electrical properties caused by insulating resins limits the overall performance of the CBP. Recently, massive studies have been reported to develop high-performance practical CBP; while there is few detailed summarizations yet. This review covers the recent advances in materials and technologies of high-performance CBP comprehensively. First, the core materials supporting the electrical conductivity and mechanical properties are summarized in detail. Furthermore, the interaction between resins and carbon-based materials is analyzed carefully. Subsequently, the fabrication process and novel structure of CBP are reviewed. Finally, the existing challenges are also discussed, and several future research directions are proposed. Overall, this review can provide guidelines for selecting appropriate strategies for improved CBP in PEMFC. •The materials and technologies of composite bipolar plate are reviewed.•The core materials for electrical and mechanical properties are summarized.•The fabrication process and novel structure of CBP are reviewed.•Suggestions for future development of composite bipolar plate are discussed.