Nonisothermal Mathematical Model for Performance Evaluation of Passive Direct Methanol Fuel Cells

Abstract

A one-dimensional, nonisothermal model for passive direct methanol fuel cells (DMFCs) is developed. The coupled heat and mass transport, along with electrochemical reactions, are considered in the model. Cell performance for different methanol feed concentrations is evaluated. The reason for improved fuel cell performance at increased methanol feed concentrations is investigated and explained. Variations in cell operating temperature, heat generation rate at the anode catalyst layer (ACL), and at the cathode catalyst layer (CCL) are critically analyzed in this connection. It is found that the ACL temperature, referred to as the cell operating temperature, has a crucial effect on passive DMFC performance. The increased cell operating temperature at higher methanol feed concentration is responsible for better cell performance. The results of this work will be useful for optimizing the thermal management and achieving better performance of passive DMFCs.