Optimization and performance analysis of methanol steam reforming coupled PEMFCs system for power generation

The proposed work presents an innovative electrochemical power system integrating Methanol Steam Reforming (MSR) with Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells (PEMFCs). The exhaust gas from the PEMFCs is burned to heat methanol and water to produce syngas, which is purified by a polymer membrane to produce high-purity H₂ for the fuel cell’s anode. This study used an innovative ultra-thin water-cast polymer membrane to separate and purify syngas, to obtain high-purity H₂. The unreacted H₂ is further utilized in the combustion chamber. This setup enables efficient cascading utilization of heat, enhancing both power generation and thermal efficiency. Simulation results show the system can operate autonomously, achieving power generation efficiency of 34.45% and thermal efficiency of 89.1%. The study explores the impact of key variables on system performance, demonstrating a novel, efficient approach to clean energy and fuel utilization.