Water and Thermal Management in PEM Fuel Cells

Water and thermal management are two critical issues for PEM fuel cells; the problem is exacerbated for
operation at high current densities in an effort to increase power density for reduced cost. The proposed research
will focus on the characterization, analysis and modeling of water and heat transport through the PEM fuel cell
components, from the catalyst layers, microporous layers and gas diffusion layers to the flow channels. Porous
structure and effective heat and mass transport properties of these layers will be measured and analyzed,
strategies for water and thermal management will be developed, including using wettability gradient through
these layers to facilitate the water transport and removal, numerical modeling and simulation of transport
phenomena, the effect of freeze and thaw cycling, impact on cold start capability, and the development of
innovative catalyst layer design and fabrication. The intended impact of the proposed research will be on the
improvement of PEM fuel cell performance and durability and cost reduction…..TOBECONTINUED

Faculty Supervisor:

Xianguo Li

Student:

Partner:

National Research Council, Institute for Fuel Cell Innovation;Shimifrez Inc

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Manufacturing

University:

University of Waterloo

Program: