Thermal-water-electrical coupling modeling of PEMFC and its dynamic performance analysis under different operating conditions

Renewable energy integrated with hydrogen storage for power generation is a promising alternative for achieving a cleaner energy source transition. However, the volatility and intermittency of renewable energy pose significant challenges to the safe and efficient operation of the proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFC) system. Due to the complex thermal-water-electrical fields coupling mechanism, a quantitative analysis of the dynamic performance of PEMFC under changes in power system operating conditions at multiple time scales has not been analyzed. Based on the heat conduction, water transport, and electrochemical reaction processes within PEMFC, this paper first analyzes the parametric coupling relationship between the thermal-water-electrical quantities and builds a comprehensive PEMFC model. The response characteristics of the internal thermal-water-electrical quantities under variations in power system operating conditions on different time scales are then investigated. On this basis, the influence of the internal multi-field physical quantities variations of PEMFC on the system operating efficiency is analyzed. Finally, the impact of external voltage fluctuations on the safety inside the PEMFC is evaluated. The simulation results indicate that the time scales, equipment operating states, and the variations of power system operating conditions affect the internal safety characteristics and operating efficiency of the PEMFC system. Furthermore, voltage stability control is essential for sustained heavy-load operation of the PEMFC system. This research provides valuable insights into PEMFC modeling and developing safe and efficient operation strategies