Simulation-Based Insights into the Thermal and Water Management of Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells with Wavy Flow Channels

This study investigates the effects of different inlet directions, pressures, and humidity conditions on the performance and thermal management of Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells (PEMFCs) with wavy flow channels. Simulations were conducted to examine the temperature distribution and water distribution on the cathode side of the proton exchange membrane. The results show that under the same inlet direction, the current and temperature increase with higher operating pressures, but the rate of increase slows down near the critical point. Moreover, higher pressures result in a more uniform temperature distribution but generate more water at the cathode, which can hinder the reaction. At 2 atm, the temperature distribution remains uniform across different humidity levels, although higher humidity improves the membrane's wetting and reaction completion, leading to increased current density up to a humidity of 0.7. Beyond this point, excess water causes flooding and blockage, reducing current density. These findings provide insights and theoretical foundations for optimizing flow channel designs and enhancing PEMFC performance.