Computational Modeling of the Thermal Behavior in Passive Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell

Abstract

A three-dimensional passive proton exchange membrane fuel cell model is designed using COMSOL Multiphysics software and is used to explore the impact of temperature distribution on average cell current density and thermal modeling is carried out to evaluate the performance of the cell. The governing equations are solved numerically and the boundary conditions are applied. The polarization curve is displayed and analyzed. The numerical results indicated that the cathode side of proton exchange membrane fuel cell is warmer and generates more heat as compared to other parts due to the exothermic reactions, slow reaction rate, joule heating effect and material properties. Moreover, it is found that the increased heat generation on the cathode side leads to an increase in temperature, consequently increasing the average current density of the cell. This work can serve as a valuable resource for understanding the thermal comportment in proton exchange membrane fuel cell for the development of more efficient and reliable fuel cell systems.