DIAGNOSIS FUNCTION FOR DETECTING MEMBRANE DEFECTS AT PEM-FUEL CELLS

The present invention relates to a method of a diagnosis function for detecting a membrane defect of a polymer electrolyte membrane-fuel cell, capable of detecting a defect of a polymer electrolyte membrane which separates a hydrogen-guiding anode system from an air-guiding cathode system. During the operation of the fuel cell, for a predetermined period of time, the difference (1) in pressures between the anode system and cathode system are fluctuated. During the fluctuation of the pressure difference (1), the partial pressure (3) of hydrogen or the amount (4) of hydrogen can be detected. Elsewise, the partial pressure (2) of nitrogen or the amount of nitrogen during the fluctuation of the pressure difference can be detected.