Transient analysis of gas transport in anode channel of a polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell with dead-ended anode under pressure swing operation

In situ analysis of voltage degradation in a polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell with a dead-ended anode

“…These parameters are known to accelerate nitrogen and water permeation from cathode to anode [21]. Moreover, the short time lapse observed between two fuel cell voltage drops, i.e.~30 s, was not compatible with any significant accumulation of nitrogen in the anode channels [5,[8][9][10][11]. Water accumulation in the GDLs is more likely the origin of our observed voltage degradation.…”

“…Fuel cell voltage drops in DEA operation have been typically attributed to two phenomena: (i) the buildup of the liquid water in the anode [3][4][5][6][7], referred to as anode flooding, and (ii) nitrogen accumulation in anode channels [5,[8][9][10][11]. Both liquid water and nitrogen, originally present in the cathode, permeate through the membrane and accumulate in the anode, which leads to hydrogen starvation.…”

“…Both liquid water and nitrogen, originally present in the cathode, permeate through the membrane and accumulate in the anode, which leads to hydrogen starvation. Pulsating the hydrogen feed was proposed as a strategy to mitigate nitrogen accumulation [8,9]. However, the buildup of the liquid water in the fuel cell induced by DEA operation remains a major, unresolved issue.…”

Model-based fuel pressure regulation algorithm for a hydrogen-injected PEM fuel cell engine

“…J.T.Pukrushpan et al [5] proposed a proportional controller based on the pressure difference across the membrane for the hydrogen tank valve, but the problem of disturbance rejection capability during purge action remains unsettled. Yasushi Ichikawa et al [12] generated oscillatory flow in anode with pressure swing operation by toggling the on-and-off hydrogen supply valve, which enhanced the convection though the channel and obtained more evenly distributed nitrogen concentration and further stabilize the power output. In this study, a hydrogen injection system is developed utilizing gaseous fuel injectors, as shown in Fig.…”

Development of a polymer electrolyte fuel cell dead-ended anode purge strategy for use with a nitrogen-containing hydrogen gas supply

“…Dead-ended anode (DEA) operation is a common method [7,8] for operating PEFCs as it can simplify the fuel cell system design, potentially avoiding flow meters, humidifiers, and huge hydrogen losses (slippage) if recirculation is not used. It employs a single pressure regulator before the gas inlet to the stack and a purge valve after the anode outlet.…”