Abstract:The frames in PEMFCs are usually bound with membrane by the adhesive. The frames function as the rigid protecting structure for membrane and play an important role in sealing. However, due to the complex operation environment in fuel cells, the performance of the frame and adhesive could be degraded, which could endanger the gas tightness of the whole fuel cells. Therefore, with the help of finite element software and cohesive element model, series of new-type frames were designed and compared. Their effects on the frame-adhesive samples were investigated. The results show that by making convex structure (triangle or trapezoid) on the low elasticity modulus frames surface can effectively extend the separated displacement of the sample. On the contrary, these new structures can degrade the adhesive performance in high elasticity modulus frames. Moreover, the sizes and shapes of the optimized structures also have effects on the adhesive performance. Furthermore, among the optimized structures, the convex triangle structure with the 1.5 mm base shows the best adhesive performance.