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This paper proposes an innovative radial flow field design for PEM fuel cells to improve power density, and presents a 3D model of heat, mass, and charge transport and electrochemistry.

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System
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Abstract

Proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cells are promising candidates for power generation in transportation, portable, and stationary applications due to their high full and partload efficiencies, low operating temperatures, high power densities, fast startups, and potential system robustness. A vital component for this new technology is the bipolar plate since it supplies the fuel and oxidant, removes the products of reaction, collects the current produced, and provides mechanical support for the cells in the stack. However, the bipolar plate adds weight, volume, and cost to the fuel cell. A way to offset this, at least partially and perhaps significantly, would be by improving the bipolar plate flow field layout so that the power density of the cell or stack (parallel cell arrangement) is improved. To that end, this paper proposes an innovative radial flow field design for which a three-dimensional model of the heat, mass, and charge transport and electrochemistry in a single fuel cell has been developed and solved via a finite volume approach. This model is based on the following supposition: steady state, isothermal, single phase, isotropic materials and mass transfer in three directions. Predictions of current density as well as the pressure losses, velocities, and flow field contours are made and presented.

Key findings

  • The radial flow field design improves current density compared to traditional flow field designs.
  • The optimal radial flow field design is achieved with a specific distribution of flow channels and ribs.
  • The improved current density is attributed to the enhanced mass transport and reduced ohmic losses.

Keywords

Proton exchange membrane fuel cellStack (abstract data type)Current densityNuclear engineeringMechanicsPower density

Identifiers

DOI
10.1115/imece2007-42429
Journal
Volume 6: Energy Systems: Analysis, Thermodynamics and Sustainability
Year
2006