Design and Mathematical Modelling of Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell used in Automobiles

Abstract

The demand for electric vehicles is increasing day-by-day, considering a noise-free, pollution-free, and cost-efficient vehicle. But the fact that Electric Vehicles (EVs) cause less pollution than traditional IC-Engine Vehicles is not completely true, as switching to an electric vehicle produces an equal amount of pollution as in an IC-Engine vehicle. Charging an electric vehicle involves electrical energy from conventional thermal power plants, and Lithium-ion extraction and disposal pollute the air and land, respectively. The Electric Vehicle also has a lower driving range in comparison to the IC-Engine vehicles. Therefore, an alternative for both Electric and IC Engine vehicles that can significantly reduce environmental pollution and provide a better driving range is the need of the hour. Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells or Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cells (PEMFCs) will be an ideal solution to increase the driving range of the vehicle and reduce pollution. These fuel cells require hydrogen gas in a compressed state and oxygen from the atmosphere. The main objective of the research is to design and develop a PEM Fuel cell that can be used to achieve zero-emissions in automobiles. In this work, a mathematical model in MATLAB Simulink is used to simulate and test the PEM Fuel cell. The cell parameters, such as stack voltage and current density, are analyzed for various pressures, temperatures and humidification at the anode and cathode. It is observed that the model demonstrated the effect of reducing the relative humidity in both anode and cathode and results in the membrane became dry and highly resistive. So, at higher current density, more voltage drops in the fuel cell stack.