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Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cell Systems

A special issue of Energies (ISSN 1996-1073). This special issue belongs to the section "A5: Hydrogen Energy".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (25 September 2020) | Viewed by 61541

Special Issue Editors

Prof. Dr. Cesare Pianese

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Salerno, 84084 Salerno, Italy
Interests: internal combustion engines; energy management; emissions reduction; fuel cells; hybrid vehicles; energy systems; optimization
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Pierpaolo Polverino

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Salerno, 84084 Salerno, Italy
Interests: fuel cells; electrolysers; energy systems; hybrid vehicles; modeling; optimization; diagnostics; prognostics; control
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Recent advancements in Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cell (PEMFC) technology have directed the interest of the major research and industrial players towards PEMFC-based energy systems. This Special Issue of Energies aims to collect articles that describe the most up-to-date advancements in research and innovation on PEMFC systems for automotive and stationary applications. Topics of interest include, but are not limited to:

  • design of PEMFC-based power systems;
  • management and optimization of PEMFC system operation;
  • optimal control of PEMFC systems;
  • PEMFC systems for micro-combined heat and power (micro-CHP) uses;
  • PEMFC systems for backup applications;
  • PEMFC systems for automotive uses;
  • PEMFC systems as auxiliary power units (APUs);
  • diagnosis of PEMFC system stacks and balance-of-plant (BOP);
  • prognosis and estimation of PEMFC system durability;
  • power electronics for PEMFC systems;
  • use of PEMFC systems in virtual power plants (VPPs); and
  • PEMFC systems for power-to-gas (P2G) and gas-to-power (G2P) applications.

Prof. Dr. Cesare Pianese
Dr. Pierpaolo Polverino
Guest Editors

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Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2600 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells
  • control
  • diagnosis
  • prognosis
  • optimization
  • design
  • energy management
  • micro-combined heat and power
  • backup
  • automotive
  • auxiliary power unit
  • balance-of-plant
  • virtual power plant

Published Papers (17 papers)

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Research

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22 pages, 6921 KiB  
Article
Hybrid Renewable Hydrogen Energy Solution for Application in Remote Mines
by Hosein Kalantari, Seyed Ali Ghoreishi-Madiseh and Agus P. Sasmito
Energies 2020, 13(23), 6365; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/en13236365 - 02 Dec 2020
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 3922
Abstract
Mining operations in remote locations rely heavily on diesel fuel for the electricity, haulage and heating demands. Such significant diesel dependency imposes large carbon footprints to these mines. Consequently, mining companies are looking for better energy strategies to lower their carbon footprints. Renewable [...] Read more.
Mining operations in remote locations rely heavily on diesel fuel for the electricity, haulage and heating demands. Such significant diesel dependency imposes large carbon footprints to these mines. Consequently, mining companies are looking for better energy strategies to lower their carbon footprints. Renewable energies can relieve this over-reliance on fossil fuels. Yet, in spite of their many advantages, renewable systems deployment on a large scale has been very limited, mainly due to the high battery storage system. Using hydrogen for energy storage purposes due to its relatively cheaper technology can facilitate the application of renewable energies in the mining industry. Such cost-prohibitive issues prevent achieving 100% penetration rate of renewables in mining applications. This paper offers a novel integrated renewable–multi-storage (wind turbine/battery/fuel cell/thermal storage) solution with six different configurations to secure 100% off-grid mining power supply as a stand-alone system. A detailed comparison between the proposed configurations is presented with recommendations for implementation. A parametric study is also performed, identifying the effect of different parameters (i.e., wind speed, battery market price, and fuel cell market price) on economics of the system. The result of the present study reveals that standalone renewable energy deployment in mine settings is technically and economically feasible with the current market prices, depending on the average wind speed at the mine location. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cell Systems)
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10 pages, 1225 KiB  
Article
Development of a Heuristic Control Algorithm for Detection and Regeneration of CO Poisoned LT-PEMFC Stacks in Stationary Applications
by Vietja Tullius, Marco Zobel and Alexander Dyck
Energies 2020, 13(18), 4648; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/en13184648 - 07 Sep 2020
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1665
Abstract
Combined heat and power (CHP) systems based on low-temperature proton exchange membrane fuel cells (LT-PEMFC) technology are suspected to CO poisoning on the anode side. The fuel cell CO sensitivity increases with ongoing operation time leading to high performance losses. In this paper [...] Read more.
Combined heat and power (CHP) systems based on low-temperature proton exchange membrane fuel cells (LT-PEMFC) technology are suspected to CO poisoning on the anode side. The fuel cell CO sensitivity increases with ongoing operation time leading to high performance losses. In this paper we present the development of detection and regeneration algorithm based on air bleed to minimize voltage losses due to CO poisoning. Therefore, CO sensitivity tests with two short stacks with different operation time will be analyzed and the test results of aged membrane electrode assemblies (MEAs) will be presented for the first time. Additionally, the first results of the algorithm in operation will be shown. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cell Systems)
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15 pages, 4689 KiB  
Article
Design and Implementation of High Order Sliding Mode Control for PEMFC Power System
by Mohammed Yousri Silaa, Mohamed Derbeli, Oscar Barambones and Ali Cheknane
Energies 2020, 13(17), 4317; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/en13174317 - 20 Aug 2020
Cited by 36 | Viewed by 3271
Abstract
Fuel cells are considered as one of the most promising methods to produce electrical energy due to its high-efficiency level that reaches up to 50%, as well as high reliability with no polluting effects. However, scientists and researchers are interested more in proton [...] Read more.
Fuel cells are considered as one of the most promising methods to produce electrical energy due to its high-efficiency level that reaches up to 50%, as well as high reliability with no polluting effects. However, scientists and researchers are interested more in proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs). Thus, it has been considered as an ideal solution to many engineering applications. The main aim of this work is to keep the PEMFC operating at an adequate power point. To this end, conventional first-order sliding mode control (SMC) is used. However, the chattering phenomenon, which is caused by the SMC leads to a low control accuracy and heat loss in the energy circuits. In order to overcome these drawbacks, quasi-continuous high order sliding mode control (QC-HOSM) is proposed so as to improve the power quality and performance. The control stability is proven via the Lyapunov theory. The closed-loop system consists of a PEM fuel cell, a step-up converter, a DSPACE DS1104, SMC and QC-HOSM algorithms and a variable load resistance. In order to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed control scheme, experimental results are compared with the conventional SMC. The obtained results show that a chattering reduction of 84% could be achieved using the proposed method. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cell Systems)
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18 pages, 6289 KiB  
Article
Reduced Graphene Oxide Decorated with Dispersed Gold Nanoparticles: Preparation, Characterization and Electrochemical Evaluation for Oxygen Reduction Reaction
by Oana-Andreea Lazar, Adriana Marinoiu, Mircea Raceanu, Aida Pantazi, Geanina Mihai, Mihai Varlam and Marius Enachescu
Energies 2020, 13(17), 4307; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/en13174307 - 20 Aug 2020
Cited by 17 | Viewed by 2591
Abstract
The commonly used electrode Pt supported on a carbon (Pt/C) catalyst has demonstrated underperforming electrochemical durability in proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) harsh operation conditions, especially in terms of Pt electrochemical instability and carbon corrosion. Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) are considered one of [...] Read more.
The commonly used electrode Pt supported on a carbon (Pt/C) catalyst has demonstrated underperforming electrochemical durability in proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) harsh operation conditions, especially in terms of Pt electrochemical instability and carbon corrosion. Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) are considered one of the best alternative catalysts of PtNPs due to their remarkable selectivity for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and electrochemical stability in strong acid conditions, attributes which are ideal for practical PEMFC applications. In this work, we propose a new, facile and low-cost approach to prepare AuNPs supported on reduced graphene oxide nanocompounds (AuNPs/rGO). The morphological and structural properties of the as-prepared AuNPs/rGO were studied using various microscopic and spectroscopic techniques, namely, Raman Spectroscopy, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Scanning Transmission Electron Microscopy (STEM), X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), specific surface area (Brunauer–Emmett–Teller, BET). A mesoporous structure with narrow pore size distribution centered at 2 nm approximately, where the pores are regular and interconnected was successfully fabricated. The prepared catalyst was exposed to an accelerated stress test (potential cycles between −0.8 and +0.2 in KOH 1 M solution). The voltammetric stability test indicated a slight degradation after 1500 cycles. The electrochemical stability was assigned to the combined effect of AuNPs formed during chemical synthesis and to graphene oxide support. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cell Systems)
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25 pages, 2501 KiB  
Article
Numerical Investigation of PEMFC Short-Circuit Behaviour Using an Agglomerate Model Approach
by Carsten Cosse, Marc Schumann, Florian Grumm, Daniel Becker and Detlef Schulz
Energies 2020, 13(16), 4108; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/en13164108 - 08 Aug 2020
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2199
Abstract
With increasing interest in clean energy generation in the transportation sector, increasing attention has been given to polymer-electrolyte-membrane fuel cells as viable power sources. One issue, the widespread application of this technology faces, is the insufficient knowledge regarding the transient behaviour of fuel [...] Read more.
With increasing interest in clean energy generation in the transportation sector, increasing attention has been given to polymer-electrolyte-membrane fuel cells as viable power sources. One issue, the widespread application of this technology faces, is the insufficient knowledge regarding the transient behaviour of fuel cells, for instance, following a short-circuit event. In this paper, an agglomerate model is presented and validated, which enables the transient simulation of short-circuit events to predict the resulting peak current and discharge of the double layer capacity. The model allows for the incorporation of detailed morphological and compositional information regarding all fuel cell components. This information is used to calculate the reaction rate, diffusional and convectional species transfer, and the momentum transport. It can be shown that the charge in the double layer capacitance of the fuel cell is key to predicting the peak current and its charge is dependent on the operating conditions of the fuel cell. Further, the effects of the magnitude of the double layer capacity, current rise time and stoichiometry on the dynamic behaviour of the fuel cell are investigated. It can be shown that the discharge of the double layer capacity proceeds from the membrane through the catalyst layer to the gas diffusion layer and that the stoichiometry of the gas supply does not significantly change the absolute peak value of the short-circuit current. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cell Systems)
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19 pages, 613 KiB  
Article
Rapid Fault Diagnosis of PEM Fuel Cells through Optimal Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy Tests
by Behzad Najafi, Paolo Bonomi, Andrea Casalegno, Fabio Rinaldi and Andrea Baricci
Energies 2020, 13(14), 3643; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/en13143643 - 15 Jul 2020
Cited by 27 | Viewed by 4184
Abstract
The present paper is focused on proposing and implementing a methodology for robust and rapid diagnosis of PEM fuel cells’ faults using Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS). Accordingly, EIS tests have been first conducted on four identical fresh PEM fuel cells along with an [...] Read more.
The present paper is focused on proposing and implementing a methodology for robust and rapid diagnosis of PEM fuel cells’ faults using Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS). Accordingly, EIS tests have been first conducted on four identical fresh PEM fuel cells along with an aged PEMFC at different current density levels and operating conditions. A label, which represents the presence of a type of fault (flooding or dehydration) or the regular operation, is then assigned to each test based on the expert knowledge employing the cell’s spectrum on the Nyquist plot. Since the time required to generate the spectrum should be minimized and considering the notable difference in the time needed for carrying out EIS tests at different frequency ranges, the frequencies have been categorized into four clusters (based on the corresponding order of magnitude: >1 kHz, >100 Hz, >10 Hz, >1 Hz). Next, for each frequency cluster and each specific current density, while utilizing a classification algorithm, a feature selection procedure is implemented in order to find the combination of EIS frequencies utilizing which results in the highest fault diagnosis accuracy and requires the lowest EIS testing time. For the case of fresh cells, employing the cluster of frequencies with f > 10 Hz, an accuracy of 98.5 % is obtained, whereas once the EIS tests from degraded cells are added to the dataset, the achieved accuracy is reduced to 89.2 % . It is also demonstrated that, while utilizing the selected pipelines, the required time for conducting the EIS test is less than one second, an advantage that facilitates real-time in-operando diagnosis of water management issues. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cell Systems)
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27 pages, 6912 KiB  
Article
Mapping Fuzzy Energy Management Strategy for PEM Fuel Cell–Battery–Supercapacitor Hybrid Excavator
by Hoai Vu Anh Truong, Hoang Vu Dao, Tri Cuong Do, Cong Minh Ho, Xuan Dinh To, Tri Dung Dang and Kyoung Kwan Ahn
Energies 2020, 13(13), 3387; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/en13133387 - 01 Jul 2020
Cited by 29 | Viewed by 2965
Abstract
By replacing conventional supplies such as fossil fuels or internal combustion engines (ICEs), this paper presents a new configuration of hybrid power sources (HPS) based on the integration of a proton-exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) with batteries (BATs) and supercapacitors (SCs) for hydraulic [...] Read more.
By replacing conventional supplies such as fossil fuels or internal combustion engines (ICEs), this paper presents a new configuration of hybrid power sources (HPS) based on the integration of a proton-exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) with batteries (BATs) and supercapacitors (SCs) for hydraulic excavators (HEs). In contrast to conventional architectures, the PEMFC in this study functions as the main power supply, whereas the integrated BAT–SC is considered as an auxiliary buffer. Regarding shortcomings existing in the previous approaches, an innovative energy management strategy (EMS) was designed using a new mapping fuzzy logic control (MFLC) for appropriate power distribution. Comparisons between the proposed strategy with available approaches are conducted to satisfy several driving cycles with different load demands and verify the strategy’s effectiveness. Based on the simulation results, the efficiency of the PEMFC when using the MFLS algorithm increased up to 47% in comparison with the conventional proposed EMS and other approaches. With the proposed strategy, the HPS can be guaranteed to not only sufficiently support power to the system even when the endurance process or high peak power is required, but also extend the lifespan of the devices and achieves high efficiency. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cell Systems)
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20 pages, 4936 KiB  
Article
A Real-Time Dynamic Fuel Cell System Simulation for Model-Based Diagnostics and Control: Validation on Real Driving Data
by Daniel Ritzberger, Christoph Hametner and Stefan Jakubek
Energies 2020, 13(12), 3148; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/en13123148 - 17 Jun 2020
Cited by 17 | Viewed by 3554
Abstract
Fuel cell systems are regarded as a promising candidate in replacing the internal combustion engine as a renewable and emission free alternative in automotive applications. However, the operation of a fuel cell stack fulfilling transient power-demands poses significant challenges. Efficiency is to be [...] Read more.
Fuel cell systems are regarded as a promising candidate in replacing the internal combustion engine as a renewable and emission free alternative in automotive applications. However, the operation of a fuel cell stack fulfilling transient power-demands poses significant challenges. Efficiency is to be maximized while adhering to critical constraints, avoiding adverse operational conditions (fuel starvation, membrane flooding or drying, etc.) and mitigating degradation as to increase the life-time of the stack. Owing to this complexity, advanced model-based diagnostic and control methods are increasingly investigated. In this work, a real time stack model is presented and its experimental parameterization is discussed. Furthermore, the stack model is integrated in a system simulation, where the compressor dynamics, the feedback controls for the hydrogen injection and back-pressure valve actuation, and the purging strategy are considered. The resulting system simulation, driven by the set-point values of the operating strategy is evaluated and validated on experimental data obtained from a fuel cell vehicle during on-road operation. It will be shown how the internal states of the fuel cell simulation evolve during the transient operation of the fuel cell vehicle. The measurement data, for which this analysis is conducted, stem from a fuel cell research and demonstrator vehicle, developed by a consortium of several academic and industrial partners under the lead of AVL List GmbH. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cell Systems)
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18 pages, 4757 KiB  
Article
Model-Based Data Driven Approach for Fault Identification in Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell
by K. V. S. Bharath, Frede Blaabjerg, Ahteshamul Haque and Mohammed Ali Khan
Energies 2020, 13(12), 3144; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/en13123144 - 17 Jun 2020
Cited by 13 | Viewed by 2665
Abstract
This paper develops a model-based data driven algorithm for fault classification in proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs). The proposed approach overcomes the drawbacks of voltage and current density assumptions in conventional model-based fault identification methods and data limitations in existing data driven [...] Read more.
This paper develops a model-based data driven algorithm for fault classification in proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs). The proposed approach overcomes the drawbacks of voltage and current density assumptions in conventional model-based fault identification methods and data limitations in existing data driven approaches. This is achieved by developing a 3D model of fuel cells (FC) based on semi empirical model, analytical representation of electrochemical model, thermal model, and impedance model. The developed model is simulated for membrane drying and flooding faults in PEMFC and their effects are identified for the action of varying temperature, pressure, and relative humidity. The ohmic, concentration, activation and cell voltage losses for the simulated faults are observed and processed with wavelet transforms for feature extraction. Furthermore, the support vector machine learning algorithm is adapted to develop the proposed fault classification approach. The performance of the developed classifier is tested for an unknown data and calibrated through classification accuracy. The results showed 95.5% training efficiency and 98.6% testing efficiency. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cell Systems)
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11 pages, 2887 KiB  
Article
Carbon Nanofibers Production via the Electrospinning Process
by Radu Dorin Andrei, Adriana Marinoiu, Elena Marin, Stanica Enache and Elena Carcadea
Energies 2020, 13(11), 3029; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/en13113029 - 11 Jun 2020
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3211
Abstract
Electrospun fibers with different concentrations of polyacrylonitrile (PAN) were synthesized and the results are reported in this study. The aim was to obtain carbon nanofibers for manufacturing gas diffusion layers for proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cells. The electrospun fibers obtained were carbonized [...] Read more.
Electrospun fibers with different concentrations of polyacrylonitrile (PAN) were synthesized and the results are reported in this study. The aim was to obtain carbon nanofibers for manufacturing gas diffusion layers for proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cells. The electrospun fibers obtained were carbonized at 1200 °C, 1300 °C, and 1400 °C, in order to have nanofibers with more than 96% of carbon atoms. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) results revealed an increase in the diameter from 400–700 nm at 1200 °C to 1000–1400 nm at 1300 °C and 1400 °C. The Raman measurements disclose a higher degree of crystallinity for the sample carbonized at elevated temperatures. The surface area was estimated from the Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) method and the results revealed an increase from 40.69 m2g−1 to 66.89 m2g−1 and 89.92 m2g−1 as the carbonization temperature increased. Simultaneously, the pore volume increased with increasing carbonization temperature. The Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) spectra reveal that during carbonization treatment, C≡N triple bonds are destroyed with the appearance of C=N double bonds. Decreasing the ID/IG intensities’ ratio from ~1.07 to ~1.00 denotes the defects reduction in carbonaceous materials due to the graphitization process. Therefore, the carbon fibers developed in optimum conditions are appropriate to be further used to produce gas diffusion layers for Proton-exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFC). Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cell Systems)
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20 pages, 4904 KiB  
Article
Liquid Water Transport Behavior at GDL-Channel Interface of a Wave-Like Channel
by Ikechukwu S. Anyanwu, Zhiqiang Niu, Daokuan Jiao, Aezid-Ul-Hassan Najmi, Zhi Liu and Kui Jiao
Energies 2020, 13(11), 2726; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/en13112726 - 28 May 2020
Cited by 15 | Viewed by 3079
Abstract
This paper evaluates the liquid water at the gas diffusion layer-channel (GDL-channel) interface of reconstructed GDL microstructures with uniform and non-uniform fiber diameters in wave-like channels. A non-uniform GDL microstructure is reconstructed for the first time at the GDL-channel interface to evaluate droplet [...] Read more.
This paper evaluates the liquid water at the gas diffusion layer-channel (GDL-channel) interface of reconstructed GDL microstructures with uniform and non-uniform fiber diameters in wave-like channels. A non-uniform GDL microstructure is reconstructed for the first time at the GDL-channel interface to evaluate droplet motion. The three-layer GDL microstructures are generated using the stochastic technique and implemented using the OpenFOAM computational fluid dynamics (CFD) software (OpenFOAM-6, OpenFOAM Foundation Ltd., London, UK). The present study considers the relationship between reconstructed GDL surfaces with varying fiber diameters, wettability, superficial inlet velocity and droplet size. Results show that the droplet detachment and the average droplet velocity decrease with an increase in the fiber diameter as well as the structural arrangement of the fibers. Under the non-uniform fiber arrangement, the removal rate of water droplets is not significantly improved. However, the choice of smaller fiber diameters facilitates the transport of droplets, as hydrophobicity increases even at slight surface roughness. The results also indicate that the average droplet velocity decreases under low inlet velocity conditions while increasing under high inlet velocity conditions. Therefore, the structural make-up of the GDL-channel interface influences the droplet dynamics, and the implementation of a non-uniform GDL structure should also be considered in the GDL designs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cell Systems)
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17 pages, 3487 KiB  
Article
Impact of MPL on Temperature Distribution in Single Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cell with Various Thicknesses of Polymer Electrolyte Membrane
by Akira Nishimura, Tatsuya Okado, Yuya Kojima, Masafumi Hirota and Eric Hu
Energies 2020, 13(10), 2499; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/en13102499 - 15 May 2020
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2169
Abstract
The impact of micro porous layer (MPL) with various thicknesses of polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) on heat and mass transfer characteristics, as well as power generation performance of Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cell (PEFC), is investigated. The in-plane temperature distribution on cathode separator back [...] Read more.
The impact of micro porous layer (MPL) with various thicknesses of polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) on heat and mass transfer characteristics, as well as power generation performance of Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cell (PEFC), is investigated. The in-plane temperature distribution on cathode separator back is also measured by thermocamera. It has been found that the power generation performance is improved by the addition of MPL, especially at higher current density condition irrespective of initial temperature of cell (Tini) and relative humidity condition. However, the improvement is not obvious when the thin PEM (Nafion NRE-211; thickness of 25 μm) is used. The increase in temperature from inlet to outlet without MPL is large compared to that with MPL when using thick PEM, while the difference between without MPL and with MPL is small when using thin PEM. It has been confirmed that the addition of MPL is effective for the improvement of power generation performance of single PEFC operated at higher temperatures than normal. However, the in-plane temperature distribution with MPL is not even. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cell Systems)
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17 pages, 2674 KiB  
Article
Modelling Carbon Corrosion during a PEMFC Startup: Simulation of Mitigation Strategies
by Bolahaga Randrianarizafy, Pascal Schott, Mathias Gerard and Yann Bultel
Energies 2020, 13(9), 2338; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/en13092338 - 08 May 2020
Cited by 22 | Viewed by 2611
Abstract
This paper presents a study of the carbon support corrosion and mitigation strategies through the use of a pseudo-3D model. This model consists in coupling a 2D model along the channel with another model perpendicular to the flow at the rib/channel scale. Simulations [...] Read more.
This paper presents a study of the carbon support corrosion and mitigation strategies through the use of a pseudo-3D model. This model consists in coupling a 2D model along the channel with another model perpendicular to the flow at the rib/channel scale. Simulations offer a deeper understanding of the corrosion through the analysis of the local conditions. Rib/channel heterogeneities show the higher degradation in the zones facing the anodic rib. These results are validated qualitatively on literature data by analysis of SEM images and carbon dioxide concentration at the cathode outlet. Three mitigation strategies are studied using the model. The first one consists in speeding up the hydrogen filling of the cell. The second strategy involves an external electrical resistance to create a current leak during the startup. Third, a design study of the rib/channel is performed to minimize the cathode degradation. Whatever the mitigation strategy, it consists in reducing either the duration or the magnitude of the high cathode electrode potential. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cell Systems)
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19 pages, 2418 KiB  
Article
An Evolutionary Computation Approach for the Online/On-Board Identification of PEM Fuel Cell Impedance Parameters with A Diagnostic Perspective
by Walter Zamboni, Giovanni Petrone, Giovanni Spagnuolo and Davide Beretta
Energies 2019, 12(22), 4374; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/en12224374 - 17 Nov 2019
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3100
Abstract
Online/on-board diagnosis would help to improve fuel cell system durability and output power. Therefore, it is a feature the manufacturers may wish to provide for final users to increase the attractiveness of their product. This add-on requires suitable stack models, parametric identification tools [...] Read more.
Online/on-board diagnosis would help to improve fuel cell system durability and output power. Therefore, it is a feature the manufacturers may wish to provide for final users to increase the attractiveness of their product. This add-on requires suitable stack models, parametric identification tools and diagnostic algorithms to be run on low-cost embedded systems, ensuring a good trade-off between accuracy and computation time. In this paper, a computational approach for the impedance parameter identification of polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell stack is proposed. The method is based on an evolutionary algorithm including sub-population and migration features, which improves the exploration capability of the search space. The goal of the evolutionary algorithm is to find the set of parameters that minimizes an objective function, representing the mismatch between two impedance plots in a normalized plane. The first plot is associated with experimental impedance and the second is computed on the basis of the identified parameters using a circuit model. Three kinds of impedance models, characterized by increasing computational complexity, are used, depending on the experimental data—a linear model made of resistors and capacitors, the Fouquet model and the Dhirde model. Preliminary analysis of the experimental impedance data may evidence correlations among parameters, which can be exploited to reduce the search space of an evolutionary algorithm. The computational approach is validated with literature data in a simulated environment and with experimental data. The results show good accuracy and a computational performance that fits well with the commercial embedded system hardware resources. The implementation of the approach on a low-cost off-the-shelf device achieves small computation times, confirming the suitability of such an approach to online/on-board applications. From a diagnostic perspective, the paper outlines a diagnostic approach based on the identified impedance parameters, on the basis of a small set of experimental data including fuel cell stack faulty conditions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cell Systems)
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Review

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17 pages, 4558 KiB  
Review
Methanol Electrolysis for Hydrogen Production Using Polymer Electrolyte Membrane: A Mini-Review
by Sethu Sundar Pethaiah, Kishor Kumar Sadasivuni, Arunkumar Jayakumar, Deepalekshmi Ponnamma, Chandra Sekhar Tiwary and Gangadharan Sasikumar
Energies 2020, 13(22), 5879; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/en13225879 - 11 Nov 2020
Cited by 35 | Viewed by 5726
Abstract
Hydrogen (H2) has attained significant benefits as an energy carrier due to its gross calorific value (GCV) and inherently clean operation. Thus, hydrogen as a fuel can lead to global sustainability. Conventional H2 production is predominantly through fossil fuels, and [...] Read more.
Hydrogen (H2) has attained significant benefits as an energy carrier due to its gross calorific value (GCV) and inherently clean operation. Thus, hydrogen as a fuel can lead to global sustainability. Conventional H2 production is predominantly through fossil fuels, and electrolysis is now identified to be most promising for H2 generation. This review describes the recent state of the art and challenges on ultra-pure H2 production through methanol electrolysis that incorporate polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM). It also discusses about the methanol electrochemical reforming catalysts as well as the impact of this process via PEM. The efficiency of H2 production depends on the different components of the PEM fuel cells, which are bipolar plates, current collector, and membrane electrode assembly. The efficiency also changes with the nature and type of the fuel, fuel/oxygen ratio, pressure, temperature, humidity, cell potential, and interfacial electronic level interaction between the redox levels of electrolyte and band gap edges of the semiconductor membranes. Diverse operating conditions such as concentration of methanol, cell temperature, catalyst loading, membrane thickness, and cell voltage that affect the performance are critically addressed. Comparison of various methanol electrolyzer systems are performed to validate the significance of methanol economy to match the future sustainable energy demands. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cell Systems)
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28 pages, 3457 KiB  
Review
Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cell Degradation Mechanisms and Their Diagnosis by Frequency Response Analysis Methods: A Review
by Antonio Sorrentino, Kai Sundmacher and Tanja Vidakovic-Koch
Energies 2020, 13(21), 5825; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/en13215825 - 08 Nov 2020
Cited by 45 | Viewed by 5059
Abstract
Several experimental techniques involving dynamic electrical variables are used to study the complex behaviour of polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells in order to improve performance and durability. Among them, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) is one of the most employed methods. Like any frequency [...] Read more.
Several experimental techniques involving dynamic electrical variables are used to study the complex behaviour of polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells in order to improve performance and durability. Among them, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) is one of the most employed methods. Like any frequency response analysis (FRA) methodology, EIS enables one to separate the contribution of many processes to performance losses. However, it fails to identify processes with a similar time constant and the interpretation of EIS spectra is often ambiguous. In the last decade, alternative FRA methodologies based on non-electrical inputs and/or outputs have been developed. These studies were mainly driven by requirements for a better diagnosis of polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) faulty operation conditions as well as better component and material design. In this contribution, a state-of-the-art EIS and novel FRA techniques for PEMFC diagnosis are summarised. First, common degradation mechanisms and their causes are discussed. A mathematical framework based on linear system theory of time invariant systems is described in order to explain the theoretical implications of the use of different input/output configurations. In relation to this, the concepts and potential are depicted as well as the problematic aspects and future prospective of these diagnostic approaches. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cell Systems)
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20 pages, 2395 KiB  
Review
Prospects of Fuel Cell Combined Heat and Power Systems
by A.G. Olabi, Tabbi Wilberforce, Enas Taha Sayed, Khaled Elsaid and Mohammad Ali Abdelkareem
Energies 2020, 13(16), 4104; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/en13164104 - 07 Aug 2020
Cited by 81 | Viewed by 8018
Abstract
Combined heat and power (CHP) in a single and integrated device is concurrent or synchronized production of many sources of usable power, typically electric, as well as thermal. Integrating combined heat and power systems in today’s energy market will address energy scarcity, global [...] Read more.
Combined heat and power (CHP) in a single and integrated device is concurrent or synchronized production of many sources of usable power, typically electric, as well as thermal. Integrating combined heat and power systems in today’s energy market will address energy scarcity, global warming, as well as energy-saving problems. This review highlights the system design for fuel cell CHP technologies. Key among the components discussed was the type of fuel cell stack capable of generating the maximum performance of the entire system. The type of fuel processor used was also noted to influence the systemic performance coupled with its longevity. Other components equally discussed was the power electronics. The thermal and water management was also noted to have an effect on the overall efficiency of the system. Carbon dioxide emission reduction, reduction of electricity cost and grid independence, were some notable advantages associated with fueling cell combined heat and power systems. Despite these merits, the high initial capital cost is a key factor impeding its commercialization. It is, therefore, imperative that future research activities are geared towards the development of novel, and cheap, materials for the development of the fuel cell, which will transcend into a total reduction of the entire system. Similarly, robust, systemic designs should equally be an active research direction. Other types of fuel aside, hydrogen should equally be explored. Proper risk assessment strategies and documentation will similarly expand and accelerate the commercialization of this novel technology. Finally, public sensitization of the technology will also make its acceptance and possible competition with existing forms of energy generation feasible. The work, in summary, showed that proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEM fuel cell) operated at a lower temperature-oriented cogeneration has good efficiency, and is very reliable. The critical issue pertaining to these systems has to do with the complication associated with water treatment. This implies that the balance of the plant would be significantly affected; likewise, the purity of the gas is crucial in the performance of the system. An alternative to these systems is the PEM fuel cell systems operated at higher temperatures. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cell Systems)
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