Each fuel cell component of a proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) used in automotive application operates most effectively (from performance and durability standpoints) within specific ranges of water content and temperature. The water and heat transport processes are coupled and present a challenge in providing the right balance over the entire range of operating conditions. Another important related aspect is CO poisoning of the electrocatalyst, which adversely affects the fuel cell performance. Freezing and cold-start present additional challenges for automotive PEMFCs. A critical review of the recent developments on these topics is presented in this paper. The study covers both the microscopic and macroscopic aspects of the transport within membrane, catalyst layers, gas diffusion layers, and gas channels, and an overview of the current PEMFC cooling technology. After discussing the current status, suggestions for future work on the above topics are presented.
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November 2009
This article was originally published in
Journal of Fuel Cell Science and Technology
Technology Review
Fundamental Research Needs in Combined Water and Thermal Management Within a Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell Stack Under Normal and Cold-Start Conditions
Satish G. Kandlikar,
sgkeme@rit.edu
Satish G. Kandlikar
Rochester Institute of Technology
, Rochester, NY 14623
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Zijie Lu
zxleme@rit.edu
Zijie Lu
Rochester Institute of Technology
, Rochester, NY 14623
Search for other works by this author on:
Satish G. Kandlikar
Zijie Lu
J. Fuel Cell Sci. Technol. Nov 2009, 6(4): 044001 (13 pages)
Published Online: August 18, 2009
Article history
Received:
August 25, 2007
Revised:
May 6, 2008
Published:
August 18, 2009
Citation
Kandlikar, S. G., and Lu, Z. (August 18, 2009). "Fundamental Research Needs in Combined Water and Thermal Management Within a Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell Stack Under Normal and Cold-Start Conditions." ASME. J. Fuel Cell Sci. Technol. November 2009; 6(4): 044001. https://doi.org/10.1115/1.3008043
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