Modeling of Two-Phase Flow in a Cathode Duct of PEM Fuel Cells

Abstract

In this study, a fully three-dimensional model has been developed to simulate two-phase, multi-component gas and heat transport processes in a PEMFC cathode duct. The effects of the electrochemical reactions on the heat generation and mass transfer have been taken into account. Based on the calculated values of water vapor partial pressure and temperature, occurrence of liquid water has been predicted and its effects on the heat generation (caused by water condensation) are also considered. Variable thermal-physical properties, local pressure and non-uniform temperature are calculated and updated in the simulation. It is revealed that the mass fraction and location of the regions of the liquid water are very sensitive to the operating parameters. The gas species convection transport in the porous layer is of significance and must be considered in PEMFC modeling.