What material are bladder-type fuel cells typically made from?

Bladder-type fuel cells are primarily made from rubber or nylon due to their excellent flexibility, durability, and resistance to fuel and environmental factors. Rubber materials provide a level of elasticity that allows the bladder to expand and contract as fuel levels change, minimizing the risk of damage. Nylon, being a synthetic polymer, also adds significant strength and chemical resistance, which is essential for containing various types of fuels without degradation. These properties make rubber and nylon ideal for bladder-type fuel cells, ensuring they can withstand the operational conditions of aviation fuel systems while maintaining safety and efficiency.

In contrast, steel and aluminum are structural materials that do not offer the necessary flexibility required for swelling and contraction in a fuel cell. Glass fiber and resin are typically used in rigid structures or in composite materials, but they are not suitable for the flexible and dynamic nature of bladder designs. Plastic composites, while useful in various applications, do not provide the same level of fuel resistance and flexibility as rubber or nylon for bladder-type fuel cells.