The Influence of Water and Thermal Conditions on the Performance of PEM Fuel Cell

Abstract

The conditions of water content in the proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) are studied in this research. It is known that the hydrogen proton should accompany with water molecule in order to drift through the membrane from anode to cathode. This drift force will concern to the fuel cell performance. However, too much water content may result of flooding. When flooding appears, some catalyst surfaces may be covered with water and result of the catalysts inactive. This will reduce the electrochemical reaction rate. Furthermore, due to the water molecule will occupy the space, this will hinder the reactant molecules approaching to the catalyst. Therefore, the management of water for the fuel cells is very important. The performance can be optimized with a better control of cell conditions. Some important conditions that concern to the heat and water management are investigated. They include cell temperature, reactant flow rate, humidity and pressure. A standard single cell stack with active area of 25cm² was set for this study.

Key findings

• ▸Excessive water content can lead to flooding, reducing catalyst activity and electrochemical reaction rates.
• ▸Water molecules occupying space hinder reactant molecules from approaching the catalyst.
• ▸Optimal cell performance requires careful control of cell conditions, including temperature, reactant flow rate, humidity, and pressure.

Keywords

Identifiers

DOI

10.1115/fuelcell2003-1757

Journal

1st International Fuel Cell Science, Engineering and Technology Conference

Year

2002