Modeling Current Density Distribution Inside Proton-Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells

A numerical model of the cathode of a proton-exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) based on the discrete geometric approach is presented. The current density distribution inside a PEMFC cathode is simulated. The discrete formulation of a steady-state conduction problem in nonisotropic media is coupled to nonlinear boundary conditions representing the charge transfer at catalyst layers. The cathode performance is assessed under different load conditions by assuming a constant voltage operation mode. Results are in good agreement with those presented in the literature.