GRAPHITE METAL COMPOSITES FOR FUEL CELL BIPOLAR PLATES

A fuel cell system bipolar plate formed of a graphite metal composite. The bipolar plate is formed of a metal foil formed of tantalum or a metal having a tantalum coating. Flexible graphite deposited in rows on each surface of the metal foil forms channels of the bipolar plate and providing a flow field. The graphite metal composite provides flexural strength as well as resistance to corrosion.