Performance Analysis and Optimization of a High-Temperature PEMFC Vehicle Based on Particle Swarm Optimization...

Area of Science:

• Energy Conversion and Storage
• Materials Science
• Thermodynamics

Background:

• Proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) are crucial for clean energy. High-temperature PEMFCs (HT-PEMFCs) offer advantages but require accurate modeling.
• Polybenzimidazole membranes doped with phosphoric acid are promising for HT-PEMFCs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a finite time thermodynamics model for HT-PEMFCs.
• To analyze the impact of operating and design parameters on HT-PEMFC performance.
• To optimize HT-PEMFCs for enhanced power density and efficiency.

Main Methods:

• Developed a mathematical model for HT-PEMFCs based on finite time thermodynamics.
• Incorporated polarization and leakage current losses into the model.
• Utilized the particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm for multi-objective optimization.
• Validated the model with experimental data.

Main Results:

• The developed HT-PEMFC model accurately predicts performance.
• Optimization using PSO significantly improved power density and efficiency.
• The optimized HT-PEMFC demonstrated superior performance compared to LT-PEMFC and standard HT-PEMFC.
• FCV powertrain simulations showed increased efficiency and reduced hydrogen consumption with the optimized HT-PEMFC.

Conclusions:

• The finite time thermodynamics model provides a reliable framework for HT-PEMFC analysis and optimization.
• Optimized HT-PEMFCs offer a viable solution for improving fuel cell vehicle efficiency.
• The study provides design schemes for FCV powertrains based on different fuel cell types.