Optimum Design of the Flow-Field Channels and Fabrication of a Micro-PEM Fuel Cell

A single micro-PEM (proton exchange membrane) fuel cell is manufactured and analyzed in order to investigate the cell performance versus the flow-field channel characteristics. Pressure distribution in the channels is investigated for different cross sections with different flow fields. The whole design process, meshing, and simulations are done in Solid Works software. After simulation of the various multichannels, a serpentine configuration is chosen. Channels are manufactured from graphite, and the active area is 2.25 cm(2). Membrane electrode assembly is prepared by Nafion 115, 10% PtC, and carbon paper, with a platinum loading of 0.1 mg cm(2). The cell output is measured in flow rates of 15, 30, and 45 sccm. The results show that the maximum power output is 148.7 mW cm(2) and is gained at 45 sccm. This value is higher than the similar micro-PEM power output reported in other papers.