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An experimental and simulation study of novel channel designs for open-cathode high-temperature polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells

Title
An experimental and simulation study of novel channel designs for open-cathode high-temperature polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells
Author(s)
Thomas, SobiBates, AlexPark, SamSahu, A. K.Lee, Sang C.Son, Byung RakKim, Joo GonLee, Dong-Ha
Issued Date
2016-03
Citation
Applied Energy, v.165, pp.765 - 776
Type
Article
Author Keywords
High-temperature PEMFCOpen cathodePressure dropPower densityParasitic lossesBOP
Keywords
BOPCathodesCONFIGURATIONSCoolantsDESIGNDropsElectrodesElectrolytesFLOW-FIELD DESIGNSFuel CellsGAS-DIFFUSION ELECTRODEHigh-Temperature PemfcHigh Temperature Polymer Electrolyte MembranesMICRO-COMBINED HEATMODELOpen CathodeParallel FlowParasitic LossParasitic LossesPemFCPERFORMANCE ANALYSISPolyelectrolytesPower DensitiesPower DensityPRESSURE-DROPPressure DropProton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells (PemFC)SerpentineSilicate MineralsSimulation ApproachSimulation StudiesSolid ElectrolytesSTACKSYSTemTemPERATUREThermal GradientsUniform Flow Distributions
ISSN
0306-2619
Abstract
A minimum balance of plant (BOP) is desired for an open-cathode high temperature polymer electrolyte membrane (HTPEM) fuel cell to ensure low parasitic losses and a compact design. The advantage of an open-cathode system is the elimination of the coolant plate and incorporation of a blower for oxidant and coolant supply, which reduces the overall size of the stack, power losses, and results in a lower system volume. In the present study, we present unique designs for an open-cathode system which offers uniform temperature distribution with a minimum temperature gradient and a uniform flow distribution through each cell. Design studies were carried out to increase power density. An experimental and simulation approach was carried out to design the novel open-cathode system. Two unique parallel serpentine flow designs were developed to yield a low pressure drop and uniform flow distribution, one without pins and another with pins. A five-cell stack was fabricated in the lab based on the new design. Performance and flow distribution studies revealed better performance, uniform flow distribution, and a reduced temperature gradient across the stack; improving overall system efficiency. © 2015 Elsevier Ltd.
URI
http://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11750/5114
DOI
10.1016/j.apenergy.2015.12.011
Publisher
ELSEVIER SCI LTD

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