Study of the Current Density Distribution of a PEM Fuel Cell with Variation of Temperature and Partial Pressure

Abstract:
The operating parameters of a proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cell (FC) for climate-neutral generation of electrical and thermal energy have a major influence on its performance and service life and require a detailed analysis. Current peaks occurring in the cell during operation lead to accelerated membrane degradation [1]. This paper presents the investigation of current density distribution within a PEM Fuel Cell in dependence on operating temperatures and partial pressures. The investigation of the current density distribution in a PEM fuel cell has been carried out on a PEM Fuel Cell test-rig (Baltic fuel cells – quickCONNECTfixture FC25). Two values of operating temperatures (T = 35 °C and 70 °C) and pressures (p = 1 bar and p = 2 bar) of the fuel cells were chosen for the measurements. A suitable measurement method has been defined for the measurements, taking into account the operating limits of the fuel cell and ensuring the reproducibility of the measurement results. The results show a current distribution dependence of temperature and partial pressure. It is noticeable that the distribution of current benefits from higher temperatures and partial pressures.