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A comprehensive review of cold start in proton-exchange membrane fuel cells: Challenges, strategies, and prospects

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  • Yu, Yongsheng
  • Zheng, Weibo
  • Li, Bing
  • Zhang, Cunman
  • Ming, Pingwen

Abstract

Hydrogen energy, a clean and efficient power source, plays a crucial role in the global transition to sustainable energy. Among various hydrogen energy technologies, proton-exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) are highly promising owing to their high-power density and low-temperature operation. However, the cold-start performance of PEMFCs under subfreezing conditions remains a significant challenge. Ice formation obstructs transport pathways, disrupts electrochemical reactions, and hinders both thermal and water management. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of recent advancements in PEMFC cold-start research, particularly on material innovations, structural design optimizations, and multi-mode cold-start control strategies. Unlike previous reviews that focus on numerical modeling, experimental analysis, thermal management, or optimization strategies, this paper integrates key mechanisms influencing cold-start performance. These mechanisms include water content regulation, heat transfer enhancement, and ice mitigation techniques. Moreover, various cold-start strategies (including purge-assisted water removal, external load regulation, and hybrid heating) are compared to assess their effectiveness and feasibility in real-world applications. Additionally, the review highlights key challenges affecting cold-start efficiency and outlines future research directions. These include the development of self-regulating hydration membranes, advanced water transport structures, and adaptive multi-phase startup strategies. This paper integrates fundamental principles with practical engineering approaches to outline a roadmap for enhancing PEMFC cold-start technology, particularly for automotive and stationary power applications.

Suggested Citation

  • Yu, Yongsheng & Zheng, Weibo & Li, Bing & Zhang, Cunman & Ming, Pingwen, 2025. "A comprehensive review of cold start in proton-exchange membrane fuel cells: Challenges, strategies, and prospects," Applied Energy, Elsevier, vol. 390(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:appene:v:390:y:2025:i:c:s0306261925005768
    DOI: 10.1016/j.apenergy.2025.125846
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