Tuning of PEM fuel cell model parameters for prediction of steady state and dynamic performance under various operating conditions

Many models are available with various degrees of complexity to study the behaviour of Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells (PEMFC) under varying operating conditions. To our knowledge no model has been developed from single cells to multiple cells with increased electrode area for PEMFC stacks along with power conditioners, by considering the dynamic characteristics of the fuel cells under the influence of stoichiometry, humidity ratio and their response during their integration with power conditioners. We have developed a model using Matlab to study the transient response of the cell for 30 cm2, which has been extended to a multicell stack of 1.2 kW capacity of electrode area 150 cm2. The developed model has been validated using PEMFC single cells and stacks, by considering partial pressure of hydrogen, oxygen, and water as three states, anode fuel utilization and all three losses. This model is proposed to evaluate the transient response of all the stacks developed at Centre for Fuel Cell Technology (CFCT) ranging from a few watts to 10 kW that are integrated with various power conditioners depending on the applications.

► A Minimal order electrochemical model has been developed. ► This model takes into account of various fuel cell operating conditions. ► This has been extended to large area electrodes as well for stacks. ► This model is integrated with Boost converters for integration with other power sources.