Modelling the Proton-Conductive Membrane in Practical Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cell (PEMFC) Simulation: A Review

Abstract

Theoretical models used to describe the proton-conductive membrane in polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) are reviewed, within the specific context of practical, physicochemical simulations of PEMFC device-scale performance and macroscopically observable behaviour. Reported models and their parameterisation (especially for Nafion 1100 materials) are compiled into a single source with consistent notation. Detailed attention is given to the Springer–Zawodzinski–Gottesfeld, Weber–Newman, and “binary friction model” methods of coupling proton transport with water uptake and diffusive water transport; alongside, data are compiled for the corresponding parameterisation of proton conductivity, water sorption isotherm, water diffusion coefficient, and electroosmotic drag coefficient. Subsequent sections address the formulation and parameterisation of models incorporating interfacial transport resistances, hydraulic transport of water, swelling and mechanical properties, transient and non-isothermal phenomena, and transport of dilute gases and other contaminants. Lastly, a section is dedicated to the formulation of models predicting the rate of membrane degradation and its influence on PEMFC behaviour.

Electrosynthesis of Electrochromic Polymer Membranes Based on 3,6-Di(2-thienyl)carbazole and Thiophene Derivatives

“…Electrochromism refers to when electroactive species undergo a reversible change in optical absorption properties during the electrochemical oxidation/reduction process, and the species are electrochromic materials [1][2][3]. In the past 20 years, electrochromic materials and electrochemical membrane materials have been utilized in several fields such as for architectural windows, helmet visors, rearview mirrors, optical displays [4], fuel cells [5][6][7], and supercapacitors [8,9]. Electrochromic materials are generally classified into two categories: (a) inorganic complexes and transition metal oxides and (b) organic polymers and viologen derivatives [10].…”

A Molecular Model of PEMFC Catalyst Layer: Simulation on Reactant Transport and Thermal Conduction

“…Proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) have attracted attention from energy devices such as portable, mobile, and stationary devices because it helps effective reductions of energy shortage and environment pollution [ 1 , 2 , 3 , 4 ]. However, the high price of PEMFCs components, especially the platinum (Pt) group catalyst becomes one of the bottlenecks that limit their commercial development.…”

Impact of Membrane Phosphoric Acid Doping Level on Transport Phenomena and Performance in High Temperature PEM Fuel Cells

“…Fuel cells are energy conversion devices where the chemical energy of a fuel is directly converted to electrical and thermal energy. Proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) can be used as a power source for various applications due to their high power density, high energy efficiency, and environmental friendliness [1,2]. The operating temperature of low-temperature proton exchange membrane fuel cells (LT-PEMFCs) is below <100 • C. The membrane of LT-PEMFCs must maintain a sufficient hydration level to ensure high proton conductivity.…”