Three-dimensional numerical analysis of PEM fuel cells with straight and wave-like gas flow fields channels

Using a three-dimensional computational model, numerical simulations are performed to investigate the performance characteristics of proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) incorporating either a conventional straight gas flow channel or a novel wave-like channel. The simulations focus particularly on the effect of the wave-like surface on the gas flow characteristics, the temperature distribution, the electrochemical reaction efficiency and the electrical performance of the PEMFCs at operating temperatures ranging from 323 K to 343 K. The numerical results reveal that the wave-like surface enhances the transport of the reactant gases through the porous layer, improves the convective heat transfer effect, increases the gas flow velocity, and yields a more uniform temperature distribution. As a result, the efficiency of the catalytic reaction is significantly improved. Consequently, compared to a conventional PEMFC, the PEMFC with a wave-like channel yields a notably higher output voltage and power density. (c) 2007 Published by Elsevier B.V.