(337b) CFD-Based Modelling of an Open Flow Field Architecture Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells

Nuvera fuel cell used an advanced technology to design fuel cells suited to the demanding needs of heavy-duty vehicle application. This technology incorporates an open flow field architecture that enables higher power density and increases the active area of each cell MEA. In this work, a 3D computational fluid dynamic (CFD) model for proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cells has been developed. The model accounts for convective and diffusive transport of species in the open flow fields, GDL, catalyst and membrane layers with electrochemical reactions. The heat generation was calculated with the electrochemical reaction, ohmic resistance and phase change due to condensation/vaporization of water. The model solves for the electric and ionic potentials in the electrodes and membrane. This model predicts the local current density, overpotential, and water content in all of the layers, including the open flow field cathode and anode. The model showed a good agreement to the experimental polarization curve, cathode pressure drop and coolant outlet temperature. The model suggested the local flow and temperature distributions have strong effect on the current density distribution in the open field fuel cell. The model was able to predict the fuel cell performance at the start up transient condition.