In this paper, we present a comprehensive non-isothermal, one-dimensional model of the cathode side of a Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cell. We explicitly include the catalyst layer, gas diffusion layer and the membrane. The catalyst layer and gas diffusion layer are characterized by several measurable microstructural parameters. We model all three phases of water, with a view to capturing the effect that each has on the performance of the cell. A comparison with experiment is presented, demonstrating excellent agreement, particularly with regard to the effects of water activity in the channels and how it impacts flooding and membrane hydration. We present several results pertaining to the effects of water on the current density (or cell voltage), demonstrating the role of micro-structure, liquid water removal from the channel, water activity, membrane and gas diffusion layer thickness and channel temperature. These results provide an indication of the changes that are required to achieve optimal performance through improved water management and MEA-component design. Moreover, with its level of detail, the model we develop forms an excellent basis for a multi-dimensional model of the entire membrane electrode assembly.

Operation of proton exchange membrane fuel cells at high current densities is a potential option to reduce fuel cell cost and volume for automotive applications. This operating regime was investigated using low cell voltages leading to limiting current density values. A zero-dimensional cell voltage model and a one-dimensional low cell voltage model were developed and validated. The operating conditions required for model applicability were summarized. The gas diffusion electrode overall mass transfer coefficient was identified as a key design parameter.

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In this paper we present a transient, fully two-phase, non-isothermal model of carbon monoxide poisoning and oxygen bleeding in the membrane electrode assembly of a polymer electrolyte fuel cell. The model includes a detailed description of mass, heat and charge transport, chemisorption, electrochemical oxidation and heterogeneous catalysis (when oxygen is introduced). Example simulation results demonstrate the ability of the model to qualitatively capture the fundamental features of the poisoning process and the extent of poisoning with respect to channel temperature and concentration. Further examples show how the multi-step kinetics can interact with other physical phenomena such as liquid-water flooding, particularly in the anode. Carbon monoxide pulsing is simulated to demonstrate that the complicated reaction kinetics of oxygen bleeding can be captured and even predicted. It is shown that variations in the channel temperature have a convoluted effect on bleeding, and that trends in performance on relatively short time scales can be the precise opposite of the trends observed at steady state. We incorporate a bi-functional mechanism for carbon monoxide oxidation on platinum-ruthenium catalysts, demonstrating the marked reduction in the extent of poisoning, the effect of variations in the platinum-ruthenium ratio and the influence of temperature. Finally, we discuss the implications of the results, extensions to the model and possible avenues for experimental work.