A Critical Review of Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells Matter Transports and Voltage Polarisation for Modelling

TL;DR

This paper critically reviews the current state of PEMFC modeling, clarifying governing laws and equations to improve understanding and guide future research in sustainable hydrogen energy technologies.

Contribution

It provides a comprehensive analysis of transport and voltage polarization models, clarifies their theoretical foundations, and addresses inconsistencies in current literature.

Findings

Clarifies the use of governing equations in PEMFC models

Highlights the importance of correct assumptions and conditions

Serves as a foundation for future PEMFC modeling improvements

Abstract

Technologies based on the use of hydrogen are promising for future energy requirements in a more sustainable world. Consequently, modelling fuel cells is crucial, for instance, to optimize their control to achieve excellent performance, to test new materials and configurations on a limited budget, or to consider their degradation for improved lifespan. To develop such models, a comprehensive study is required, encompassing both well-established and the latest governing laws on matter transport and voltage polarisation for Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells (PEMFCs). Recent articles often rely on outdated or inappropriate equations, lacking clear explanations regarding their background. Indeed, inconsistent understanding of theoretical and experimental choices or model requirements hinders comprehension and contributes to the misuse of these equations. Additionally, specific researches are needed to construct more accurate models. This study aims to offer a comprehensive understanding of the current state-of-the-art in PEMFC modeling. It clarifies the corresponding governing equations, their usage conditions, and assumptions, thus serving as a foundation for future developments. The presented laws and equations are applicable in most multi-dimensional, dynamic, and two-phase PEMFC models.