Design and performance optimization of a lattice-based radial flow field in proton exchange membrane fuel cells

Abstract

The design of the flow field structure in Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells (PEMFCs) plays a pivotal role in determining their electrochemical performance. This study presents a lattice-based radial flow field configuration designed to improve PEMFC efficiency. The difference between the flow field and the traditional flow field is that the flow field is segmented by a small cylindrical rib instead of a longer rib. The research employs COMSOL Multiphysics simulation software to establish the model of the operating conditions of PEMFCs, focusing on analyzing how the number of rib branches and the minimum rib radius influence the oxygen distribution, water distribution, and pressure drop in the system. The results demonstrate that varying the number of rib branches and the minimum radius of the cylindrical ribs has a pronounced impact on the PEMFC's performance. Furthermore, a comparative analysis of multiple design configurations reveals the optimal operating parameters. Specifically, within a quarter of the computational domain, the configuration featuring a minimum rib radius of 0.135 cm and six rib branches delivers the best electrochemical performance.