Optimizing fuel cell selection: An AHP-driven multi-criteria framework

Abstract

To systematically rank fuel cells (FCs) based on their performance, this study utilizes the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP), a commonly used approach for multi-criteria decision-making. To assess the pros and cons of eight different FC types, we analyzed 21 parameters that affect FC functionality. With global weights of 0.155, 0.133, and 0.114, metal efficiency, durability/cycle life, and cost were the most important factors. According to the assessment, Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells (PEMFCs) were the most promising, with a global weight of 0.186. The study further examined five different PEMFC options, employing a multi-index evaluation model that considered fifteen important factors. The most important factors here were Proton Conductivity, Activity, Water Management, and Fuel/Oxidant Purity, which were weighted at 0.186, 0.156, 0.129, and 0.106, respectively. According to the combined assessment, low-temperature PEMFCs (LT-PEMFCs) showed the best performance, with a total score of 0.298. These results emphasize that fuel cell performance could be improved by increasing utilization, and research into LT-PEMFCs appears to be a good way to achieve optimization.