The effects of GDL anisotropic transport properties on the PEFC performance

Purpose This paper aims to numerically investigate the impact of gas diffusion layer (GDL) anisotropic transport properties on overall and local performance polymer electrolyte fuel cells (PEFCs). Design/methodology/approach A three-dimensional numerical model a cell with single straight channel has been developed sensitivity GDL – permeability, diffusivity, thermal conductivity electrical conductivity. Realistic experimentally estimated were incorporated into PEFC model, parametric study was performed show effect these distribution key variables current density oxygen concentration within cathode GDL. Findings The results showed that anisotropy must be captured avoid overestimation/underestimation modelled cell. also distributions mass fraction are highly sensitive through-plane and, lesser extent, is almost insensitive permeability Practical implications improves understanding importance in modelling provides useful insights improving efficiency cells. Originality/value have for first time, allowing more accurate prediction performance.