Abstract
Proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cells are increasingly recognized as a viable clean energy option in mobility, due to their high efficiency and minimal greenhouse gas emissions. A significant challenge in enhancing PEM fuel cell systems lies in improving the efficiency of the air processing subsystem (APS). Despite recent progress, further optimization is imperative, particularly in addressing costs, service life, efficiency, and dynamic behaviour. This study presents an innovative approach to cathode exhaust gas recirculation (CEGR) in the fuel cell's air supply system, enhancing both lifetime and efficiency by optimizing idling and freeze-start behaviours, thus enhancing the operational range. The system recirculates oxygen-depleted humid exhaust gas to the fuel cell stack, facilitated by components including a control valve, water separator, collection tank, and diaphragm pump. Simulation models provide detailed correlations between the gas composition of recirculated exhaust gas, oxygen stoichiometry, and cell voltage. Based on these insights, a control system for freeze starts and idling is developed. Simulation findings highlight the potential of the exhaust gas recirculation system to save up to 83 % hydrogen and extend service life during idle power through targeted cell voltage reduction. Furthermore, additional heat generation enables freeze starts up to 4.6 times faster at temperatures below −30 °C.
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