Comparison of the performance and EIS (electrochemical impedance spectroscopy) response of an activated PEMFC (proton exchange membrane fuel cell) under low and high thermal and pressure stresses. (15th February 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Zhiani, Mohammad; Majidi, Somayeh; Silva, Valter Bruno; Gharibi, Hussein
• Is Part Of: Energy. Volume 97(2016)
• Page Start: 560
• Page End: 567
• Publication Date: 2016-02-15
• Subjects: Activation conditions -- Performance analysis -- Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy -- Membrane electrode assembly -- PEM fuel cell; Power resources -- Periodicals; Power (Mechanics) -- Periodicals; Energy consumption -- Periodicals; 333.7905
• DOI: 10.1016/j.energy.2015.12.058
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0360-5442

Abstract

Abstract: In this study, it was demonstrated that membrane electrode assembly (MEA) conditioning at the low stress condition produces a higher performance compared to MEA conditioning under the high stress condition, although it needs more time to accomplish. The maximum power density (MPD) of 1600 mW cm −2 was achieved by the MEA activated at low temperature and pressure (MEA-LTP) compared to the MEA activated at high temperature and pressure (MEA-HTP) in the same operating conditions, 1090 mW cm −2, whiles the MEA structure of both cells was identical. MEA conditioning at the low stress condition enhances not only the fuel cell power but also its energy efficiency by 25%. Comparison of electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) responses of MEA-LTP and MEA-HTP indicated that an extension of the triple phase boundary occurred in MEA-LTP, which was consistent with the results of the MEA performance analysis. Graphical abstract: Highlights: MEA activation at low and high P and T was studied and compared. High steady state performance achieved by the activated MEA at low P and T. Low R ct and R mt obtained by the activated MEA at low P and T. Low stress condition for MEA activation is more effective than high stress status.