Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell as an Alternative to the Internal Combustion Engine for Emission Reduction: A Review on the Effect of Gas Flow Channel Structures

Abstract

Proton exchange membrane fuel cells are a new energy technology with great potential due to advantages such as high efficiency and no pollution. The structure of the gas flow channels has a profound impact on the overall performance of the fuel cell. Different flow channel geometries have their own advantages and disadvantages, and a good understanding of the influence of these structures on performance can provide a reference for the design and improvement of flow channel geometries in various application contexts. Numerical models can be used as a reasonable and reliable tool to evaluate the influence of operating and structural parameters on cell performance and service time by simulating the transport processes of substances and heat as well as electrochemical reactions inside the fuel cell and can be used for the optimisation of cell design. This paper reviews the recent models of proton exchange membrane fuel cells, summarises and analyses the effect of gas flow channels on fuel cells, and organises and concludes efficient design of flow channel structures to enhance PEMFC performance in terms of the cross-section shape, length, width, number of flow channels, and baffle position.