Experimental Validation of a State Model for PEMFC Auxiliary Control

This work aims to validate experimentally a state model for a proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) system control. In this model, the air-supply dynamic is analyzed. The air is assumed to be compressible, and the model takes into account the compressor, the humidification device, the inlet and outlet manifolds, the fuel-cell stack, and the proportional solenoid valve at the outlet. This model is described by the following variables: the total mass flow, the pressure, the temperature, and the relative humidity. The effect of the air-supply device on the system's behavior (stack voltage...) is analyzed and validated on a 600-W power PEMFC fuel experimental data. The model results fit well with the experiment and it will help to optimize the stack net power.