Reduced electrochemical performances of proton exchange membrane fuel cells due to gaseous diffusion in electrolytes

Abstract

In this report, we derive a ‘gas leak mold’ model to investigate gas diffusion in the electrolyte membranes of proton exchange membrane fuel cells. The electrochemical parameters of proton exchange membrane fuel cells, including limiting current density and concentration polarization are studied systematically. In particular, we investigate the correlation between fuel cell performance and diffusion-induced gas leak of proton exchange membranes. This work is expected to facilitate the development of highly-efficient proton exchange membrane fuel cells.