2.6 Modeling Fuel Cells and Electrolysis

Once the module has been loaded, in order to set fuel cell model parameters and assign properties to the relevant regions in your fuel cell, you need to access the fuel cell graphical user interface (the Fuel Cell and Electrolysis Models dialog).

To open the Fuel Cell and Electrolysis Models dialog, select Models under Problem Setup in the navigation pane to display the Models task page. In the Models task page, select the Fuel Cells and Electrolysis option in the Models list and click the Edit... button.

Models Fuel Cells and Electrolysis Edit...

Figure 2.6.1: Opening the Fuel Cell and Electrolysis Models Dialog in the Models Task Page

By default, the PEMFC model is already enabled, however, you can also choose the SOFC or the Electrolysis models.

Using the Fuel Cell and Electrolysis Models dialog, you can identify the relevant zones for the current collectors, flow channels, gas diffusion layers, catalyst layers, and the membrane/electrolyte. You can specify the following inputs using the Fuel Cell and Electrolysis Models dialog. Optional inputs are indicated as such.

1.   Enable the appropriate type of fuel cell model, either PEMFC, SOFC, or Electrolysis.

2.   Enable either the single-phase or the multi-phase fuel cell model (if PEMFC is selected).

3.   Set the appropriate options for the fuel cell model (optional).

4.   Set the various parameters for the fuel cell model.

5.   Select the appropriate zones and specify the properties on the anode side.

6.   Select the appropriate zones and specify the properties of the membrane/electrolyte.

7.   Select the appropriate zones and specify the properties on the cathode side.

8.   Provide input for advanced features such as contact resistivities, coolant channel properties, or stack management settings (optional).

9.   Set solution controls such as under-relaxation factors (optional).

10.   Provide input to assist reporting (optional).