Development of numerical simulation tools for modeling humidification in hydrogen fuel cells

点击翻译按钮获取中文摘要

Hydrogen fuel cells are devices that generate electricity from hydrogen and oxygen, and they are serious candidates to replace internal combustion engines in the next generation of low GHG emission vehicles. Fuel cells performance is strongly affected by the humidification level of its inner components. Hence, numerical models that take into account water transport in each layer of the fuel cell are required in order to understand and predict the impact of new and novel fuel cell designs. The main objective of that project is to develop new tools for understanding and predicting the impact of humidification on fuel cell performance. To reach that objective, the project will have two parts: (i) development of new mathematical and numerical models, and (ii), calibration of the numerical models by using experimental measurements. The development of new mathematical and numerical tools with calibrated parameters will allow scientists and companies to simulate with precision the behaviour of hydrogen fuel cells, and to identify design optimization opportunities by taking into account two-phase water transport effects. The industrial partner will be able to use the numerical tools developed during that project to constantly improve their hydrogen fuel cell system products. Finally, Canada will benefits from that project because it involves the training of highly qualified personnel in the hydrogen energy sector, and because it contributes to the fuel cell industry that is flourishing in Canada.