Abstract
In order to optimise the performance of Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells (PEMFCs) and to maximise their life cycle, water content has to be properly controlled. This paper presents a model-based method to determine the effect of load on PEMFC water content in PEMFCs using Acoustic Emission (AE) measurements. The developed model was implemented in COMSOL and verified using a single proton exchange membrane fuel cell (FC) operated under various loads. Acoustical events originating from water bubble formation have been identified and assessed using statistical parameters determined in the time and frequency domains. The feasibility of using AE techniques to detect and monitor the impact of a cell's load variation on water content is assessed. As the model results were in good agreement with experimental data, it was concluded that an AE based method could serve as an effective monitoring and control tool of water content in PEMFCs. Statically, the root mean square for acoustic emission activity has a significant relation with load characteristics and can, potentially, be a candidate for determining the AE behavior in a PEMFC.
Highlights
It has been observed that the world’s total energy consumption was 22,536 TWh in 2020 and sustainable energy’s share was projected at 13.5 % [1]
In this study, the effect of load operating conditions on acoustic emission signals induced in proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) have been investigated
Data collected from a 500 mW PEMFC unit have been analyzed and signal plots presented
Summary
It has been observed that the world’s total energy consumption was 22,536 TWh in 2020 and sustainable energy’s share was projected at 13.5 % [1]. The use of conventional fuels as sources of energy is not encouraged due to their greenhouse gas emissions, and one solution proposed is to replace fossil fuels with clean, sustainable, and eco-friendly energy sources. Increasing oil prices and the negative environmental effects of fossil fuels are undeniable. The effect of this is compounded by the global concerns of adverse environmental effects of fossil fuel consumption dependency. These are the primary driving forces behind the global pursuit for clean and sustainable energy obtained from renewable resources such as solar, wind energy, and green hydrogen
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