Analytical Modelling Of Fuel Cells

Analytical Modelling of Fuel Cells, Second Edition, is devoted to the analytical models that help us understand the mechanisms of cell operation. The book contains equations for the rapid evaluation of various aspects of fuel cell performance, including cell potential, rate of electrochemical reactions, rate of transport processes in the cell, and temperature fields in the cell, etc. Furthermore, the book discusses how to develop simple physics-based analytical models. A new chapter is devoted to analytical models of PEM fuel cell impedance, a technique that exhibits explosive growth potential. Finally, the book contains Maple worksheets implementing some of the models discussed. Includes simple physics-based equations for the fuel cell polarization curve Provides analytical solutions for fuel cell impedance Includes simple equations for calculation of temperature shapes in fuel cells Introduces physical descriptions of the basic transport and kinetic phenomena in fuel cells of various types

In fuel cell research, the gap between fundamental electrochemical processes and the engineering of fuel cell systems is bridged by the physical modelling of fuel cells. This relatively new discipline aims to understand the basic transport and kinetic phenomena in a real cell and stack environment, paving the way for improved design and performance. The author brings his unique approach to the analytical modeling of fuel cells to this essential reference for energy technologists. Covers recent advances and analytical solutions to a range of problems faced by energy technologists, from catalyst layer performance to thermal stability Provides detailed graphs, charts and other tools (glossary, index) to maximize R&D output while minimizing costs and time spent on dead-end research Presents Kulikovsky’s signature approach (and the data to support it)—which uses "simplified" models based on idealized systems, basic geometries, and minimal assumptions—enabling qualitative understanding of the causes and effects of phenomena

Fuel Cell Modeling and Simulation: From Micro-Scale to Macro-Scale provides a comprehensive guide to the numerical model and simulation of fuel cell systems and related devices, with easy-to-follow instructions to help optimize analysis, design and control. With a focus on commercialized PEM and solid-oxide fuel cells, the book provides decision-making tools for each stage of the modeling process, including required accuracy and available computational capacity. Readers are guided through the process of developing bespoke fuel cell models for their specific needs. This book provides a step-by-step guide to the fundamentals of fuel cell modeling that is ideal for students, researchers and industry engineers working with fuel cell systems, but it will also be a great repository of knowledge for those involved with electric vehicles, batteries and computational fluid dynamics. Offers step-by-step guidance on the simulation of PEMFC and SOFC Provides an appendix of source codes for modeling, simulation and optimization algorithms Addresses the fundamental thermodynamics and reaction kinetics of fuel cells, fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) and fuel cell power plant chapters

Fuel cells have been recognized to be destined to form the cornerstone of energy technologies in the twenty-first century. The rapid advances in fuel cell system development have left current information available only in scattered journals and Internet sites. Advances in Fuel Cells fills the information gap between regularly scheduled journals and university level textbooks by providing in-depth coverage over a broad scope. The present volume provides informative chapters on thermodynamic performance of fuel cells, macroscopic modeling of polymer-electrolyte membranes, the prospects for phosphonated polymers as proton-exchange fuel cell membranes, polymer electrolyte membranes for direct methanol fuel cells, materials for state of the art PEM fuel cells, and their suitability for operation above 100°C, analytical modelling of direct methanol fuel cells, and methanol reforming processes. Includes contributions by leading experts working in both academic and industrial R&D Disseminates the latest research discoveries A valuable resource for senior undergraduates and graduate students, it provides in-depth coverage over a broad scope

Direct Methanol Fuel Cell Technology presents the overall progress witnessed in the field of DMFC over the past decade, highlighting the components, materials, functions, properties and features, designs and configurations, operations, modelling, applications, pros and cons, social, political and market penetration, economics and future directions. The book discusses every single aspect of DMFC device technology, the associated advantages and drawbacks of state-of-the-art materials and design, market opportunities and commercialization aspects, and possible future directions of research and development. This book, containing critical analyses and opinions from experts around the world, will garner considerable interest among actual users/scientists/experts. Analyzes developments of membrane electrolytes, electrodes, catalysts, catalyst supports, bipolar plates, gas diffusion layers and flow channels as critical components of direct methanol fuel cells Includes modeling of direct methanol fuel cells to understand their scaling up potentials Discusses commercial aspects of direct methanol fuel cells in terms of market penetration, end application, cost, viability, reliability, social and commercial perception, drawbacks and prospects

Computational studies on fuel cell-related issues are increasingly common. These studies range from engineering level models of fuel cell systems and stacks to molecular level, electronic structure calculations on the behavior of membranes and catalysts, and everything in between. This volume explores this range. It is appropriate to ask what, if anything, does this work tell us that we cannot deduce intuitively? Does the emperor have any clothes? In answering this question resolutely in the affirmative, I will also take the liberty to comment a bit on what makes the effort worthwhile to both the perpetrator(s) of the computational study (hereafter I will use the blanket terms modeler and model for both engineering and chemical physics contexts) and to the rest of the world. The requirements of utility are different in the two spheres. As with any activity, there is a range of quality of work within the modeling community. So what constitutes a useful model? What are the best practices, serving both the needs of the promulgator and consumer? Some of the key com- nents are covered below. First, let me provide a word on my ‘credentials’ for such commentary. I have participated in, and sometimes initiated, a c- tinuous series of such efforts devoted to studies of PEMFC components and cells over the past 17 years. All that participation was from the experim- tal, qualitative side of the effort.

The book provides a systematic and profound account of scientific challenges in fuel cell research. The introductory chapters bring readers up to date on the urgency and implications of the global energy challenge, the prospects of electrochemical energy conversion technologies, and the thermodynamic and electrochemical principles underlying the operation of polymer electrolyte fuel cells. The book then presents the scientific challenges in fuel cell research as a systematic account of distinct components, length scales, physicochemical processes, and scientific disciplines. The main part of the book focuses on theory and modeling. Theoretical tools and approaches, applied to fuel cell research, are presented in a self-contained manner. Chapters are arranged by different fuel cell materials and components, and sections advance through the hierarchy of scales, starting from molecular-level processes in proton-conducting media or electrocatalytic systems and ending with performance issues at the device level, including electrochemical performance, water management, durability, and analysis of failure mechanisms. Throughout, the book gives numerous examples of formidable scientific challenges as well as of tools to facilitate materials design and development of diagnostic methods. It reveals reserves for performance improvements and uncovers misapprehensions in scientific understanding that have misled or may continue to mislead technological development. An indispensable resource for scientifically minded and practically oriented researchers, this book helps industry leaders to appreciate the contributions of fundamental research, and leaders of fundamental research to appreciate the needs of industry.