Nonprismatic Air-Breathing Fuel Cells—Concept, Theory, Design, and Manufacturing

Abstract

This paper details the research into axis symmetric architecture (ASA) proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cells possessing nonprismatic cylindrical architecture. Advantages of the ASA include improved fuel flow, reduced sealing area and weight, and increased power densities. Numerical and analytical studies will show improvements to flow characteristics. The ASA design facilitates natural convective flow to promote improved reactant availability and the prototypes created also show the ease of manufacture and assembly. ASA designs, unlike traditional fuel cells, do not require clamping plates and fastening mechanisms and lead to prototypes with reduced size, weight, and cost.