Abstract

In a proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC), humidification of reactant gases must be carefully optimized. Extremes in humidity levels at the low end (membrane dehydratation) and at the high end of the range (cathode flooding) can seriously reduce PEMFC performances. Various devices already exist to humidify and to adjust the temperature of gas streams. Criteria for the evaluation of their performances depend on the technology and/or differ from one manufacturer to the other, which makes comparison difficult. A fortiori, there is no consensus regarding their ideal values and no general method for their evaluation. The purpose of this article is to define two parameters (efficiencies) suitable for all humidification technologies and characterizing air humidifier performances in term of mass and heat transfer. These parameters allow to compare the different technologies and to define, for all of them, the range of performances required to supply fuel cells with properly humidified gases.

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.