Numerical investigation of the effect of operating conditions on the performance parameters of PEM fuel cells

Abstract

The operating parameters of proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) are very effective at generating heat. The study examined and evaluated parameters that can help determine fuel cell (FC) performance. The parameters and structures used in systems have been examined. In this context, performance evaluations have been made by performing electrochemical analyses of PEMFCs. Evaluations about how the study parameters affect the performance was made on MATLAB® and the results were presented. As a result of the study, it was seen that the operating temperature increased the efficiency until it reached certain limits. On the other hand, although the performance-enhancing effects of the working pressure are observed, high pressure appears as an obstacle. Air stoichiometric rate is another variable that affects FC performance. While high stoichiometric rates improve performance, they can adversely affect the membrane. According to the simulation result, it was found that the working temperature, working pressure and air stoichiometry should be optimized together.