Water droplet accumulation and motion in PEM (Proton Exchange Membrane) fuel cell mini-channels

• Published in: Energy (Oxford) Vol. 39; no. 1; pp. 63 - 73
• Main Authors: Carton, J.G., Lawlor, V., Olabi, A.G., Hochenauer, C., Zauner, G.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier Ltd 01.03.2012
• Subjects: catalysts; durability; Flow plate; fuel cells; mass transfer; Mini-channel; PEM fuel cell; slugs; temperature; Visualisation; VOF; Water flooding; water management; Visualisation; Mini-channel; Water flooding; VOF; Flow plate; PEM fuel cell
• ISSN: 0360-5442
• DOI: 10.1016/j.energy.2011.10.023

Effective water management is one of the key strategies for improving low temperature PEM (Proton Exchange Membrane) fuel cell performance and durability. Phenomena such as membrane dehydration, catalyst layer flooding, mass transport and fluid flow regimes can be affected by the interaction, distribution and movement of water in flow plate channels. In this paper a literature review is completed in relation to PEM fuel cell water flooding. It is clear that droplet formation, movement and interaction with the GDL (Gas Diffusion Layer) have been studied extensively. However slug formation and droplet accumulation in the flow channels has not been analysed in detail. In this study, a CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamic) model and VOF (Volume of Fluid) method is used to simulate water droplet movement and slug formation in PEM fuel cell mini-channels. In addition, water slug visualisation is recorded in ex situ PEM fuel cell mini-channels. Observation and simulation results are discussed with relation to slug formation and the implications to PEM fuel cell performance. ► Excess water in mini-channels from the collision and coalescence of droplets can directly form slugs in PEM fuel cells. ► Slugs can form at low flow rates so increasing the flow rate can reduce the size and frequency of slugs. ► One channel of a double serpentine mini-channel may become blocked due to the redistribution of airflow and pressure caused by slug formation. ► Correct GDL and mini-channel surface coatings are essential to reduce slug formation and stagnation. ► Having geometry changes (bends & steps) in the flow fields can disrupt slug movement and avoid channel blockages.