Influence of Hydrogen Humidity on the Performance of a PEMFC

Abstract

The utilization of hydrogen, particularly green hydrogen, is rapidly assuming a central role across a myriad of societal domains, spanning applications from space exploration, rocketry, and submarine propulsion to terrestrial transportation and residential energy needs. Among the exemplars of high efficiency in this domain stands the proton exchange membrane fuel cell. Effective management and control of the intricate reactions transpiring within the cell constitute paramount determinants of its performance. Notably, the interplay between the humidity of reactant gases and the moisture content within operational components exerts profound influence on the outcomes of generation processes, thereby modulating characteristic parameters including electrical voltage, current density, and power yield. This study rigorously investigates the operational performance of a commercial fuel cell under diverse environmental conditions, encompassing variations in humidity levels, pressure dynamics, and flow kinetics. Through meticulous analysis and discourse, the acquired results illuminate the multifaceted intricacies of fuel cell operation and elucidate their responsiveness to environmental variables, thereby contributing to the advancement of sustainable energy technologies.