Using electrical analogy to describe mass and charge transport in PEM fuel cell

• Published in: Renewable energy 2012-08, Vol.44, p.128-140
• Main Authors: Noiying, P., Hinaje, M., Thounthong, P., Raël, S., Davat, B.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Applied sciences; Dynamic modeling; Electric power; Electrical analogy; Energy; Energy. Thermal use of fuels; Engineering Sciences; Equipments for energy generation and conversion: thermal, electrical, mechanical energy, etc; Exact sciences and technology; Fuel cells; Large signal equivalent circuit model; Mass transport; PEM fuel cells
• ISSN: 0960-1481; 1879-0682
• DOI: 10.1016/j.renene.2012.01.081

This article deals with a PEMFC (proton exchange membrane fuel cell) electrical model based on a 1D analog representation of mass transport phenomena, and taking into account the influence of gas supply conditions on fuel cell voltage. By using an electrical analogy to describe transport of gaseous species in GDLs (gas diffusion layers), and water distribution in the membrane, the model can be directly implemented in standard simulation softwares used in electrical engineering (such as Saber, in our case), so that it can be easily employed for the simulation of fuel cell electrical systems. The paper explains how the analog model is obtained from mass transport equations, then it presents validation tests carried out in both steady-state and transient regimes on a PEM single cell bench. ► We develop a fuel cell mathematical 1D model including gas supply effects. ► We use electrical analogy to solve mass transport equations. ► The model is implemented in a standard software used in electrical engineering. ► The model can be easily employed for the simulation of fuel cell electrical systems.