Solid-phase temperature measurements in a HTPEM fuel cell

Segmented temperature measurements were performed to better understand the thermal behaviour and thermal interactions between the fluid-(gas)-phase and solid-phase temperature within a working high temperature polymer electrolyte membrane (HTPEM) fuel cell. Three types of flow-fields were studied, and the influence of temperature for no-load and load operating conditions was investigated. Tests were performed under various operating conditions, and the results demonstrate the utility of segmented temperature measurements. A significant difference in the temperature distribution was observed when the HTPEM fuel cell was operated with pure hydrogen and with hydrogen containing carbon monoxide. The findings may lead to improved HTPEM fuel cells and future middle temperature polymer electrolyte membrane (MTPEM) fuel cell designs.

► Design and layout of the segmented HTPEM fuel cell assembly used for all experimental work.
► Performance comparison and solid-phase temperature measurement for three types of flow-fields (50 cm2 MEA).
► Results highlighted for no-load and load operating conditions using different gas flow rates and different gas compositions.
► Theoretical investigations on the fluid flow behaviour for all types of flow-fields to support observed trends.
► Investigations on the minimum to maximum temperature fluctuations and on the mean temperature values.