CFD analysis of fuel cell performance: Insights into electrochemical and thermal processes

Abstract Fuel cells are a pivotal technology in the changes towards sustainable and clean energy methods due to their high energy performance and environmentally aligning functioning. This investigation carried out an overall computational analysis to investigate the influences of these crucial factors on the efficiency of a single fuel cell. This research work measures the influence of parameters on key performance variables like polarization curves, electric potential and current density output. The results show that higher inlet pressures and mass flow rates significantly enhance reactant transport, thereby decreasing concentration losses and improving polarized current outcomes. GDL porosity and electrode exchange coefficients are found to play a significant role in enhancing reactant distribution and electrochemical reaction kinetics leading to good utilization of fuel and higher cell performance. Conversely, higher inlet temperatures negatively impact efficiency due to rises in thermal stresses and reduced reactant concentrations at critical reaction zone. Furthermore, the research identifies optimal ranges for these parameters, offering actionable insights for improving fuel cell design and operation. These results contribute to the broader efforts in advancing fuel cell technologies paving the way for their effective deployment in clean energy applications. This study underscores the importance of integrating computational analysis into the optimization of high-performance and durable fuel cells for the energy demands of the future.