Numerical simulation of comprehensive performance of proton exchange membrane electrolytic cell with microporous layer

Abstract

Proton exchange membrane electrolytic cell (PEMEC) is considered a promising way to produce green hydrogen due to its advantages of high current density, rapid start and stop, and high purity of hydrogen production. However, the existing macroscopic modeling of the PEMEC lacks the consideration of MPLs and the comprehensive study of heat and mass transport. In this paper, a one-dimensional two-phase non-isothermal PEMEC model with microporous layers is established, which accounts for a complete description of mass, charge, and heat transport. The polarization curves of numerical simulation are in good agreement with the experimental data. Then, the model is used to parametric analyze the effects of operating conditions and component parameters on heat and mass transfer, voltage loss, and efficiency for the PEMEC. The results show that operating pressure has a significant influence on the electrolytic performance. Voltage loss reduced of 30.75 mV and maximum temperature of 1.74 K occur when operating pressure increases from 1atm to 3atm, respectively. The characteristics of PTL and MPL mainly affect mass transport, and when PTL thickness and MPL thickness reduce by 100 μm and 20 μm respectively, the oxygen molar fraction reduces by 4.96% and 0.94%, respectively. The application of higher porosity, permeability, and thinner PTL with a thinner microporous layer (MPL) can effectually improve the operation efficiency of PEMEC. The model results presented in this study provide a theoretical basis for the optimization and design of the PEMEC.