Dynamic Modeling and Validation of PEM Fuel Cell via System Identification Approach

The key issues with non-renewable energy resources are the harmful pollutants they produce. They also pose serious threat to human life and lead to severe atmospheric devastation. Hence, they become non-viable for future generations. With the innovation of fuel cell technology, these difficulties are wiped out. Fuel Cell technology is considered as the most efficient and environmental friendly type of energy production. Among the different types of fuel cells, Proton-Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell (PEMFC) is the most distributed type and are widespread in the market, because of its lower operating temperature, reliable performance to frequent load changes, higher efficiency and good power density. This work primarily focuses on the dynamic modeling and simulation of PEMFC. A voltage model for PEMFC is developed based on experimental data. Estimation of the system model is done by using system identification toolbox in MATLAB. Validation of the estimated model is performed by comparing the estimated model response with first principle nonlinear PEMFC model and with a different real time data.