3D modeling of an HT-PEFC stack using reformate gas

A computational fluid dynamics model is presented, which is suitable to perform full stack simulations of a high temperature polymer electrolyte fuel cell with reasonable computational power and time. The model is based on a previously presented multi-domain and multi-scale model and is extended by electrochemical equations suitable for operation with reformate gas. Model results show very good agreement with the local current density and temperature distributions which were obtained by stack experiments. A general analysis of possible flow configurations regarding anode, cathode and cooling fluid inside a stack is performed. The most favorite configuration with regard to current density homogenization is anode and cathode in counter-flow with cooling and anode in co-flow. This result is confirmed by stack experiments.

► We developed a 3D CFD model for HT-PEFC stacks using reformate which considers CO poisoning. ► The calculated local current density and temperature distribution have been validated with experimental data. ► The influence of different flow arrangements on current density distribution has been investigated.