Numerical Analysis of Bio-Emulated Flow Channel: Effect of Design and Operating Parameters on PEM Fuel Cell Performance

Hydrogen energy and proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) have become widely embraced technologies in response to global concerns about environmental issues and the pursuit of other forms of energy. This study investigates PEMFC performance by introducing a new bio-emulated flow channel (BEFC) design inspired by an external carotid artery with branches. It also describes how BEFC affects the cell performance, taking into account the design geometries such as the width and depth of the flow channel, along with cell operating parameters like temperature, relative humidity (RH), and pressure. Simulation results indicated that a BEFC design, which includes a central channel with branching structures similar to the carotid artery, improves reactant distribution and water management. The performance data reveal that PEMFC with a 1 mm flow channel width and 1 mm flow channel depth achieves a maximum power density of 0.5758 W/cm2. Furthermore, increasing the operating temperature of the cell from 40 to 70 degrees C enhances performance due to better reaction kinetics. However, temperatures above 70 degrees C result in decreased performance due to increased water evaporation. The study also reveals that increasing relative humidity (RH) to 100% and raising operating pressures from 1 to 4 bar significantly improves power output by lowering Ohmic losses and raising reactant partial pressures. Overall, this study shows that optimal channel design and fuel cell operating conditions can greatly enhance PEMFC performance.