Abstract
Using an optical H2/air polymer electrolyte fuel cell (PEFC), the mechanics of liquid water transport, starting from droplet emergence on the gas diffusion layer (GDL) surface, droplet growth and departure, to the two-phase flow in gas channels, is characterized under automotive conditions of 0.82 A/cm2, 70°C, and 2 atm. It is observed that water droplets emerge from the GDL surface under oversaturation of water vapor in the gas phase, appear only at preferential locations, and can grow to a size comparable to the channel dimension under the influence of surface adhesion. Liquid film formation on more hydrophilic channel walls and channel clogging are also revealed and analyzed.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | A408-A411 |
Journal | Electrochemical and Solid-State Letters |
Volume | 7 |
Issue number | 11 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 2004 |
Externally published | Yes |