Coupling purge dynamics, nitrogen crossover, and electrochemical performance in the dynamic analysis of a PEM fuel cell operating in dead-ended anode mode
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: We developed and presented a nonlinear dynamic model capable of reproducing the cyclic behavior of a proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) operating in dead-ended anode mode. We coupled the electrochemical reactions with gas flow dynamics in both electrodes, water transport in the membrane, and nitrogen crossover through it. The model enabled us to calculate the cell voltage, the hydrogen partial pressure in the anode, the membrane hydration state, and the overall system efficiency. We studied the effect of variations in current density, purge interval, ambient pressure, operating temperature, and the cathode stoichiometric ratio on system performance. The results showed that the voltage decreases between two purge events due to nitrogen accumulation in the anode, which progressively dilutes hydrogen near the catalyst layer. The purge duration has a strong influence on performance: increasing it improves hydrogen utilization but leads to a significant drop in voltage, whereas very frequent purging limits voltage degradation but penalizes overall efficiency. It should also be noted that increasing the cathode stoichiometry intensifies nitrogen crossover, accelerating concentration losses and decreasing both cell voltage and efficiency. An optimal stoichiometric coefficient equal to 3 is identified, providing the best compromise between oxygen supply and electrochemical performance. These findings offer valuable guidance regarding control strategies and operating condition optimization of PEMFC systems intended for automotive and stationary applications.
Authors: K. Megdouli, Bourhan Tashtoush, H. Dai, F.A. Shakil
Language: English
Subfield: Electrical and Electronic Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $3,170
OpenAlex ID: W7154684079