Complex Dynamics in a PEM Fuel Cell

Abstract

Oscillatory kinetics in a polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) was studied at different applied currents and fluxes in the anodic compartment. The system consisted of a Pt/C cathode fed with oxygen and a PtRu(1:1)/C anode fed with H2 mixed with 108 ppm of CO, and was operated at 30 oC. Many different states including periodic and non-periodic series were observed as a function of the applied current (j) and the H2/CO flux. In general, aperiodic/chaotic states were favored at high currents and low flux. This allowed us to discuss the connection between the observed dynamics and the reaction mechanism.