In this study, a Finite Element model has been implemented based on numerical modelling simulations to predict the mechanical behaviour of a representative unit of the fuel cell stack. The GDL deformation has been modelled as a combination of elastic deformation and fibres slippage. Mechanical stresses distribution and deformation are presented concerning the previous model work l with nonlinear orthotropic behaviour of the GDL. The results also show that the state of the stresses in the membrane are highly heterogeneous and largely exceed its elastic limit. The results show that the influence of the temperature variation is not significant in generating stresses. However, the influence of the moisture variation is very significant in generating stresses. Therefore, the increase in relative humidity from 30% to 90° % at T=25°C causes an increase in the maximum Von Mises stress of 0.0836MPa.

In this study, a two-dimensional, Finite Element model has been implemented based numerical modeling simulations to predict mechanical behavior of a representative unit of fuel cell stack deformation under three levels of contact pressure between GDL and bipolar plate assuming that the GDL deformation as a combination of elastic deformation and fibers slippage. The intrusion of the GDL into the channel was estimated. Indeed, with orthotropic behavior of the GDL, the proposed nonlinear orthotropic model converges towards the models of the literature as a function of the contact pressure level between the bipolar plate and the GDL (Gas Diffusion Layers).

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