Numerical investigation of block structure parameters on liquid water removal in novel block flow channels of PEMFC

Abstract

ABSTRACT In proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC), liquid water transport and removal is very important to the performance and durability. In this study, based on the volume of fluid (VOF) method, liquid water transport and removal characteristics in novel block channels of PEMFC are numerically investigated considering the dynamic wetting effect. Effects of geometric parameters of the block, namely the height, width, and length of the block, are analyzed on the water removal ability and pressure drop of block channels. The results show that the height, width, and length of the block are all decisive factors on whether droplets can be directly dragged away from the GDL surface, achieving faster water removal, and they are all positively correlated with the pressure drop. Based on earlier water removal time and lower pressure drop, the height, width, and length of the block are investigated and optimized sequentially, and the range of optimum values are suggested.