Work

Experimental study on performance degradation of PEMFC single cells in maritime operating environment

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) are being studied as power sources for ships, but their durability under marine load fluctuations remains insufficiently evaluated. This study develops a dynamic load cycle using metocean data from a container ship on a Busan–Los Angeles route. The cycle has a 70% mean load, a 10 s period, and amplitudes of 10% and 20%. Dynamic tests are conducted for 500 h and compared with steady-state operation. Degradation rates are calculated from polarization-curve voltage losses. The 10% amplitude case shows a rate similar to steady-state operation, with a difference of 3.23%, whereas the 20% amplitude case shows a 57.0% higher rate. SEM-EDS analysis shows a lower relative Pt content and suggests greater Pt redistribution within the MEA under the 20% amplitude condition. These results indicate that the amplitude of load fluctuations associated with the marine environment is an important factor in evaluating PEMFC degradation for maritime applications.

Source: Journal of Power Sources

DOI: 10.1016/j.jpowsour.2026.241657

Authors: Jae Heon Kwon, Hyun Park, Kwang Hyo Jung, Jae Hong Kim, Seon Hyeong Lee, Sanghoon Lee

Institutions: Pusan National University, Global Core Research Center for Ships and Offshore Plants

Language: English

Topic: Fuel Cells and Related Materials

Subfield: Electrical and Electronic Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Affordable and clean energy

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,230