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Hydrogen recirculation in proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) systems considering homogeneous and heterogeneous condensation

Author

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  • Ding, Hongbing
  • Zhang, Panpan
  • Wang, Shiwei
  • Yang, Yan

Abstract

Hydrogen recirculation is essential for improving the energy efficiency of proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) systems and advancing the utilization of renewable energy. Although much research has focused on structural optimization, there is still a lack of systematic analysis regarding the internal flow field and the interactions between homogeneous and heterogeneous condensing droplets within the ejector. In this study, a nucleation and condensation model based on the Euler-Lagrange approach was established to investigate the effects of inlet foreign droplet concentration and operating conditions on condensation behavior and ejector performance. The results show that increasing foreign droplet concentration enhances heterogeneous condensation while suppressing homogeneous condensation, with the mass flow rate and average diameter of homogeneous droplets reduced to 3.013 mg/s and 0.157 μm, respectively. The primary flow inlet pressure and secondary flow inlet temperature mainly affect homogeneous condensation, which in turn regulates heterogeneous condensation. The condensation process has a significant impact on the evaluation of the entrainment ratio, with a maximum reduction of 5.77 %. This study provides a theoretical basis for efficient renewable hydrogen recirculation and fuel cell system optimization, supporting the development of low-carbon transportation and energy systems.

Suggested Citation

  • Ding, Hongbing & Zhang, Panpan & Wang, Shiwei & Yang, Yan, 2026. "Hydrogen recirculation in proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) systems considering homogeneous and heterogeneous condensation," Renewable Energy, Elsevier, vol. 259(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:renene:v:259:y:2026:i:c:s096014812502717x
    DOI: 10.1016/j.renene.2025.125053
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    References listed on IDEAS

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