In situ measurement of temperature distribution in proton exchange membrane fuel cell I a hydrogen–air stack

Temperature mapping is measured by micro-thermocouples embedded into the cathode plate of the model cell. The effects of different operation conditions on temperature distribution are investigated in detail. The results show that the temperature of the stack turns on “Parabola” distribution, and the temperature increases along the flow field from the inlet to the outlet under various conditions. Temperature difference of the single cell in the stack increases with the increased operation current density, and decreases with the increased air flow rate. The effect of the inlet air temperature on the temperature difference can be neglected in the stack, and the temperature uniformity can be improved by increasing the mass flow rate of the coolant water.

► Temperature was investigated in the stack by embedding 36 thermocouples. ► The temperature in the stack exhibited “Parabola” distribution. ► Elevated air and water flow rates improved the temperature distribution uniformity.