Sensitivity analysis of fuel cell shutdown purging

Abstract This study focuses on the shutdown purge issues of fuel cells, discussing the impact of residual moisture freezing on cell performance and structure after shutdown, and emphasizing the importance of shutdown purge in reducing icing damage. Through sensitivity analysis, this paper aims to assess the extent of influence of various factors in the shutdown purge process of fuel cells to provide theoretical support. The results of the sensitivity analysis show that flow rate has the most significant impact on the membrane’s dissolved water content, followed by temperature, pressure, and relative humidity. Therefore, ensuring an adequate flow rate is crucial for shutdown purge, and appropriately adjusting the temperature, relative humidity, and pressure of the purge gas can also significantly improve the purge effect. Overall, this study provides important theoretical basis and practical guidance for optimizing the shutdown purge strategy of fuel cells.