Determination of the effective parameters on the fuel cell efficiency, based on sealing behavior of the system

Distribution and its magnitude pressure on gas diffusion layer (GDL) have direct influence on efficiency of the fuel cell. There are various parameters which affect the pressure. The aim of this investigation is to provide predetermined uniform distribution over GDL by choosing appropriate parameters (e. g. clamping force, thickness of end plate and sealant groove depth). First of all, using an experimental sealing test, the minimum compression stress over washer for no leakage condition was achieved to be 2 MPa. Sealing of the fuel cell stack was considered as a criterion for analyzing proper pressure distribution. In other words, we sought for an operational condition in which the applied stress over the washer and the magnitude of uniform pressure over GDL reach to the predetermined value. Furthermore, the influence of effective parameters such as clamping force, sealant groove depth, and thickness of end plate on the uniform pressure distribution over GDL were examined and discussed. Finally, the optimum values were reported based on the minimum clamping force, complete sealing condition, and uniform pressure distribution over the GDL.