Characteristics and modelling of PEM fuel cells

Abstract

PEM fuel cells are being used in a variety of applications including transportation and back-up power systems. The paper presents the complete experimental characteristics of a 1.2kW PEM fuel including its overload capability and dynamic performance. A circuit model for the fuel cell module that can be used to analyze and design fuel-cell power systems is also given. The model includes the mass transport effect and the pressure regulator effect. Simulated characteristics of the fuel cell are compared with the experimental results obtained on a commercial fuel cell.