In-situ on-board evaluation and control of proton exchange membrane fuel cells using magnetic sensors

Efficient and stable operation of fuel cells is based on understanding their current distribution. In this study, we propose a method for calculating the current intensity-which is fundamentally a straightforward current distribution-in real-time using magnetic fields at four distinct points. Our findings suggest that current distribution remains non-uniform during purge control, despite voltage recovery, and cooling after a dry-out proves to be time-consuming. We show that using the current intensity distribution as a control strategy enables uniform distribution and ensures the stable operation of fuel cells. Overall, our method effectively addresses the nonuniformity in current distribution, leading to enhanced performance of fuel cells.