The polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell as electric energy source, steady state and dynamic behavior

Abstract

The main objective of this work is to give information on the behavior of three small PEMFC (Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cell/Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell) prototypes under static and dynamic load conditions. This is a fuel cell that holds promise in the use for energy in automotive and household applications. A computational model was developed to simulate the static and dynamic performance of this particular type of fuel cell. This model is based on electrochemical equations and takes into consideration the advantages and disadvantages of the device in order to generate power. The model takes into consideration the operating and design parameters of the materials, with the results being compared with practical experiments.

This research gives the possibility to infer, from steady state and dynamic studies, on the design of PEMFC’s of different sizes and also to develop a further research on the need for control such as of hydrogen and oxygen pressure and flow. The study of sizing of the fuel cell is also an invaluable asset due to the low cost of the simulation