Numerical Investigation of Gas Diffusion Layer Properties in PEMFC

<div class="section abstract"><div class="htmlview paragraph">This study numerically analyzed the gas diffusion layer (GDL) in proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs). The GDL, composed of carbon fibers and binder, plays a critical role in facilitating electron, heat, gas, and water transport while cushioning under cell compression. Its microstructure significantly influences these properties, requiring precise design.</div><div class="htmlview paragraph">Using simulations, this study explored GDL designs by varying fiber and binder parameters and calculated gas diffusivity under wet conditions. Unlike previous studies, a novel model treated carbon fibers as beam elements with elastic binder connections, closely replicating structural changes under compression.</div><div class="htmlview paragraph">Key properties analyzed include permeability, electrical conductivity, and gas diffusion efficiency under wet conditions. The optimized designs enhanced these properties while balancing trade-offs between electrical conductivity and mass transport. These findings provide valuable guidelines for advancing PEMFC technology.</div></div>