Experimental investigation and optimization of proton exchange membrane fuel cell using different flow fields

Flow field validates itself as one of the critical components having a significant impact on the performance of proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs). This study experimentally analyses and compares the behavior of the wavy flow field designs with the serpentine, interdigitated, and straight parallel flow field designs. In-situ experiments are carried out for performance test, polarisation curves, and electrochemical impedance analysis with different operating conditions. Additionally, the effect of relative humidity on the different configurations are analyzed. Results reveal the sensitivity of flow field configuration to humidity levels concerning cell performance. An increase in the humidity level accompanies charge transfer improvement, thus influencing performance. Also, compared to the other flow field designs, the performance yield in the wavy flow field is impressive even with moderate pressure drop. Findings indicate that the wavy flow field configuration utilizes less parasitic load with better humidity tolerance, improved mass transport, and enhanced performance compared to the other conventional flow field designs. These positive characteristics make them highly suitable for large PEMFC stacks with the larger active area. (C) 2020 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

This study experimentally analyzed and compared the behavior of wavy flow field designs with other conventional designs, finding that wavy flow field is more sensitive to humidity levels and has impressive performance even with moderate pressure drop compared to others.