Simulation study on parameters affecting performance of direct methanol fuel cell

Abstract Direct methanol fuel cell (DMFC) is one of the most advanced fuel cells that is being considered as a future energy source. The objective of this study is to develop a mathematical model based on optimal operating parameters and to assess DMFC performance. Significant outcomes of two‐dimensional (2D) simulations were anticipated to maximize the performance of the fuel cell for usage in portable applications and the transportation sectors. Simulation of the 2D fuel cell model built on the basis of physical principles was also used to forecast how the cell will operate under various operating situations. Using the Taguchi method, experimental data from previous researchers has been analyzed to obtain the optimum parameter for DMFC. This study focused on four important parameters: effects of fuel, oxidant concentrations, reactant flow direction, and membrane properties. Optimizing these parameters ensures better fuel utilization, reduced losses, and enhanced power density, leading to a more efficient and durable DMFC system. From the results obtained, DMFC with 1.0 M of methanol concentration as the fuel concentration, oxygen as the oxidant, counter‐current flow as the flow direction, and Nafion® 211 as the type of membrane is the best configuration. This configuration achieved the highest current density of 3025 A/m 2 .