Grant: Strategic Projects - Group

Fuel cells have emerged as a promising candidate for terrestrial power generation because of their high-energy efficiency, environmental friendliness and compatibility with alternative fuels and renewable energy sources/carriers for sustainable development, and polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) fuel cell is particularly suited for transportation and on-site co-generation applications due to its high power density and fast startup. The key technical barriers to the commercialization of PEM fuel cell is the cost reduction and performance improvement, including reliability and durability. However, performance improvement and cost reduction are critically hindered by the difficulties associated with water and heat management in PEM fuel cell. Water and heat management are interrelated due to the non-uniform temperature distribution and water phase change, and are known as the two critical issues that limit the performance and cost of PEM fuel cells. Therefore, the objective of this proposed research is to improve the understanding of water and heat transport, and then to develop effective water and heat management strategies through the improved understanding that can be implemented in the design and operation of PEM fuel cell for cost reduction and performance enhancement. To achieve the above objectives a collaborative modeling and experimental investigation is planned, involving the design, fabrication and testing of PEM fuel cells, and the use of a state-of-the-art neutron radiography facility, powered by a nuclear reactor, at the US National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). The applicant and the researchers at the supporting organization (DaimlerChrysler) and NIST have already had collaboration in their existing research activities, and have complementary expertise and skills with already available research infrastructure to carry out the proposed project successfully. The results of the proposed research project will be useful to relevant Canadian industry in their effort to commercialize PEM fuel cell with competitive cost and high performance.