PEM fuel cell platinum distributions optimization under typical scenarios utilizing multiple health and efficiency indicators

Platinum (Pt) in catalyst layer significantly influences cost, durability and efficiency of proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs). However, optimal Pt distribution strategies for typical PEMFCs applications, such as in transportation and stationary power generation, have rarely been systematically investigated. To address this gap, a full-chain framework encompassing Pt-assisted mechanisms, spatial distribution, coupling effects, and applications has been established. Six agglomerate-driven Pt distribution models are firstly developed, including gradients along three spatial directions, as well as homogeneous, normal, and random distributions. In addition, a set of novel health indicators in the time–frequency domain are proposed to characterize degradation behavior and water management dynamics. Efficiency evaluation metrics incorporating Pt utilization are introduced to provide a more comprehensive assessment. Furthermore, the performance of these Pt distribution strategies is analyzed under two representative operating profiles: worldwide harmonized light vehicles test procedure and seasonal customer-side power demand, across different platinum loading levels. Simulation results reveal that, the homogeneous and x-gradient distributions emerge as the most effective for two scenarios, improving performance by 22.08 % and 11.73 %, compared to the commonly-used random distribution. The Pt loading level simulation results demonstrate optimal distributions are y-gradient, homogeneous, and x-gradient under low, medium, and high Pt loadings, yielding performance enhancements of 13.41 %, 21.19 %, and 16.39 %. Notably, the advantages and recommended application scenarios for each of the six Pt distribution strategies are summarized based on simulation findings, offering new insights into scenario-specific Pt distribution optimization for PEMFCs.