Development of a PEMFC dynamic model and the application to the analysis of fuel cell vehicle performance

Abstract

In order to investigate basic output performances of PEMFC (Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell) stack, a dynamic model of PEMFC stack has been developed by combining electrochemical sub-model and thermodynamic sub-model. With necessary validation, it demonstrates that modelling results and experimental data are in very good agreement in terms the U-I curve and power output. By applying the dynamic model to analyse performance outputs of PEMFC stack and applying the model for FC-Hybrid vehicle powertrain configuration, it demonstrates that improved PEMFC quality with increased maximum current density could increase the peak power output and also increase the working efficiency, although the increase of peak power is not linear relation with the increase of maximum current density. Higher working temperature of PEMFC would benefit the increases of both peak power output and efficiency. Compared to working temperature, ambient temperature's increase could also make positive influence on power output and efficiency, though the influence is weak. Coupling the dynamic model with a powertrain model of FC-Electric hybrid vehicle, the analysis suggests that both PEMFC stack and battery stack should have similar size for general driving condition. Too big either PEMFC stack or battery stack would increase the total weight then contaminate the fuel/energy economy.