Dynamics and control of membrane hydration in a PEMFC

Abstract

The subject of water 1JUlnagement is a key issue in the design and operation of Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cells (PEMFC). In this paper we present a dynamic m.odel central to understanding the water management and flooding issue. First we consider membrane hydration and show hOM-· the interplay between electro-osmotic drag and back-diffusion deter-"'ine ionic conductiv;t)~The model ;s then used to identify appropriate manipulated variables for controlling the location and shape of the hydration profile within the membrane.