The GDL is a component used inside a fuel cell to supply hydrogen and oxygen, collect electrons generated by the chemical reaction of the electrodes, and drain water generated in the process.

The GDL's microporous structure incorporates Teijin’s PotenCia® fine carbon fiber and Twaron® para-aramid fiber, which are combined in a manufacturing process that has been sped up by deploying proprietary paper-making technology. PotenCia® enables the new GDL to achieve excellent conductivity without damaging the catalyst layer inside the fuel cell while Twaron® contributes to high durability and water repellency. As a result, a conventional microporous layer (MPL) is not required, allowing the new GDL to be slimmed down to 50 micrometers, which is less than half the thickness of a conventional GDL. The new GDL is also expected to reduce production costs by shortening the manufacturing process as well as reducing the number of raw materials required.

Teijin is now verifying the GDL's gas diffusion and thermal conductivity, both indispensable for high performance, and also its contribution to reduced environmental impact. Concurrently, Teijin plans to develop new materials that could use the GDL, such as electrode films, in partnership with other companies that share Teijin's vision for achieving smaller and more functional fuel cells.