Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology, Sweden, have developed a groundbreaking method to study the degradation of fuel cells, a critical factor in enhancing the performance and longevity of fuel cell-powered hydrogen vehicles. Hydrogen is gaining traction as a clean fuel alternative for heavy-duty vehicles due to its emission of only water vapor and potential carbon-free production from renewable sources. Unlike electric vehicles relying on batteries, hydrogen vehicles offer the advantage of independent energy production and storage. However, the limited lifespan of fuel cell components, such as electrodes and membranes, poses a challenge. The Chalmers researchers have devised a novel approach to investigate the aging of fuel cells by dissecting and monitoring specific particles within the cell, enabling the tracking of degradation at nano and micro levels. This method unveiled how materials degrade over time and pinpointed the exact locations and stages of degradation, furnishing valuable insights for advancing fuel cell technology. By focusing on the degradation process, the researchers aim to pave the way for designing durable fuel cells with extended lifespans. The study's findings challenge previous assumptions regarding performance impacts from disassembling and studying fuel cells in this manner, thereby opening new avenues for research and development in fuel cell technology. The significance of prolonging fuel cell lifespans is underscored by the U.S. Department of Energy's emphasis on achieving this goal for the commercial viability of hydrogen-powered vehicles. The industry standard demands heavy-duty vehicles to endure 20,000 to 30,000 hours of operation, a milestone yet to be reached by current hydrogen fuel cell trucks. Through this pioneering research, the Chalmers team aims to inform the development of superior materials and control strategies, essential for enhancing fuel cell durability and driving the adoption of hydrogen as a sustainable energy source in the transportation sector.