Computational analysis of the impact of varying cathode catalyst layer microstructural parameters on transport properties

Anthropogenic greenhouse gases and aerosols resulting from the combustion of fossil fuels to power our current energy systems are the leading cause of climate change and pose human health risks, especially in urban areas. Hydrogen proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) electric vehicles offer the opportunity to displace the internal combustion engine from medium- and heavy-duty applications. PEMFC electric vehicles already offer most of the capabilities that customers expect, such as quick start-up and refueling, long range, and high efficiency, however, research is still needed to decrease their cost and increase durability. At the heart of any PEMFC is the catalyst layer (CL), a 5 to 20 micrometer heterogeneous layer where the electrochemical reactions take place. Improving transport in this layer could result in increased power density, thereby decreasing cost, and durability. Due to its dimension and the fact that this layer is sandwiched inside other layers, direct ex-situ and in-situ measurements of transport parameters are very challenging and time consuming. The aim of this project is to develop computational analysis tools to study transport property variations with composition and mesoscale structure based on electron microscopy and stochastic reconstruction images of CLs.

Faculty Supervisor:

Marc Secanell

Student:

Partner:

Ballard Power Systems Inc

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Manufacturing; Professional, scientific and technical services

University:

University of Alberta

Program: