Review: Modeling and Simulation of Membrane Electrode Material Structure for Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells

Hydrogen energy is recognized as the clean with most development potential, and hydrogen fuel cell technology considered ultimate solution utilizing energy. The proton exchange membrane (PEMFC) has merits of high efficiency, density, low operating temperature, clean, affords environmental protection. Improving structure each functional layer could play a significant role in improving PEMFC performance. In addition, electrode assemblies (MEAs) are core components PEMFC, their includes three main parts, namely, gas diffusion (GDL), catalytic (CL), (PEM). Therefore, this review focuses on progress modeling simulation material MEAs. First, GDL models critically reviewed, including two-phase calculation microscopic models. Second, CL microstructure comprehensively evaluated, involving power density enhancement, catalyst loading distribution, electrochemical reaction its performance optimization. Third, PEM model, relating to molecular dynamics (MD) techniques, 3D numerical multiphysics simulation, reviewed. Finally, aspects similarity, individuality, complementarity these discussed, necessary outlooks, current limitations challenges, suggested, providing reference for low-cost, high-performing electrodes future.