Experimental investigation of liquid water formation and transport in a transparent single-serpentine PEM fuel cell

摘要: Liquid water formation and transport were investigated by direct experimental visualization in an operational transparent single-serpentine PEM fuel cell. We examined the effectiveness of various gas diffusion layer (GDL) materials removing away from cathode through flow field over a range operating conditions. Complete polarization curves as well time evolution studies after step changes current draw obtained with simultaneous liquid within The level flooding, under same conditions cell current, was recognized criterion for removal capacity GDL materials. When compared at density (i.e. production rate), higher amount channel indicated that had been efficiently removed catalyst layer. Visualization anode used to investigate influence microporous (MPL) on transport. No observed unless GDLs MPL. MPL side creates pressure barrier produced layer. Water is pushed across membrane side, resulting flooding close H2 exit.