Challenges and optimization of PEMFC system in vehicles

Abstract

Switching from fossil fuel energy to clean and renewable energy to minimize car emissions is becoming more and more vital and crucial in the current condition of severe environmental pollution and serious fossil fuel shortage. However, there are still several issues with current fuel cell systems that prevent their widespread use. Due to Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells’ (PEMFCs) poor performance and the expensive operating costs of their catalysts, fuel cells are presently not widely accessible on the market. Fuel cells are seen as a potential method to reach the goal of zero emissions since they offer excellent benefits in terms of zero emissions and high efficiency. They do this by converting chemical energy into electrical energy using hydrogen. In this study, the three main parameters that affect the performance of PMFCs and the way in which the fuel cell converts chemical energy into electrical energy are investigated. Carbon corrosion damages PEMFCs performance because of high cathode potential during startup and shutdown. The breakdown of platinum particles employed as catalysts reduces the lifetime of PEMFCs and raises costs. The improvement of fuel cell systems is reviewed, along with methods for gas purification and catalysts produced from various cutting-edge materials including graphitized carbon. In order to address any potential environmental issues with fuel cells and seek to lower greenhouse gas emissions, this paper intends to explore better alternatives and give better remedies for PEMFC performance improvement and cost reduction.