Modeling charge transfer in a PEM fuel cell using solar hydrogen

Hydrogen is an energy carrier that can be used in industry, residences, transportation, and mobile applications. One of the main attractions for hydrogen is the environmental advantage over fossil fuels. However, Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cells, (PEMFC), is an integral part of the future hydrogen economy, they are highly efficient and a low-polluting technology. Numerous applications exist; one of the promising applications is the automotive industry. For this report a comprehensive literature survey is conducted. The findings of the literature survey include hydrogen production and fuel cell models that fit into two broad categories, that is, analytical and empirical. This work is a presentation of our original research and development regarding the production and utilization of a solar hydrogen and its use in a PEM single cell. In order to facilitate the understanding of the charge transfer phenomena in the PEM single cell, a modeling tool with visual basic was developed. All the experiences and results were illustrated in this work. Copyright (C) 2013, Hydrogen Energy Publications, LLC. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.