Unsteady 2D PEM fuel cell modeling for a stack emphasizing thermal effects

Models currently used for analyses of thermal and water behavior of a PEM fuel cell are based 3D computational fluid dynamics (CFD). However, the analyses are limited to a single cell with static behavior. Thus, these models cannot be used for analyses of dynamic behavior of a stack that continuously varies according to operating conditions. The model proposed describes dynamic behavior of a stack with two adjoining cells and endplate assembly, and work as a current controlled voltage source that can be used for optimization of BOPs and the associated controls. Simulations have been conducted to analyze start-up behaviors and the performance of the stack. Our analyses deliver following results: (1) dynamic temperature distribution in both the through-plane direction and the along channel direction of the fuel cell stack, (2) effects influencing the source terms of current density, and (3) dynamic oxygen concentration distribution. The temperature profile and its variation propensity are comparable to the previous results [Y. Shan, S.Y. Choe, J. Power Sources, 145 (1) (2005) 30–39; Y. Shan, S.Y. Choe, J. Power Sources, in press].