A tank in series model for alkaline fuel cell in cogeneration of hydrogen peroxide and electricity

This work presents a Tank in Series Reactor (TSR) model for the alkaline fuel cell operating in potentiostatic mode in cogeneration of H2O2 and electricity. The developed TSR model accounts for the component and the energy balances in gas channels, liquid alkaline and catalyst layers together with charge balances at electrode/electrolyte interfaces. The TSR model is able to predict the limiting two-dimensional profiles in alkaline fuel cell. The simulation results indicate the influence of mass transfer on the distribution of concentration, temperature and current density.

► Modelling of electricity and chemical cogeneration in fuel cells. ► Modelling of 2-dimensional concentration, temperature and current density profiles. ► Charge balance equations defined as interface boundary conditions. ► Transient model applicable for galvanostatic and potentiostatic operation modes. ► Case studies indicate the influence of mass transfer on fuel cell performance.