Output details

The formation of water droplets in an air-breathing PEMFC

The formation of water droplets and their aggregation in the cathode flow channels of an operating Air-Breathing Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell is investigated by direct visualisation under various operating conditions through a novel optical set-up enabling simultaneous observation of droplet formation in two orthogonal views, from the top and side view of the channels. The quality of the images obtained in these investigations has allowed improved understanding of water accumulation and removal mechanisms within the cell to a degree which allows the development of new generation fuel cell components with more efficient water management.