Progressive topology-curvature optimization of flow channel for PEMFC and performance assessment

Within the pursuit of carbon neutrality, the world is present process a 3rd vitality revolution pushed by renewable vitality sources and supported by varied sorts of batteries. Hydrogen vitality, as a zero-carbon vitality service, is a perfect medium for addressing international local weather change and reaching the decarbonization of the vitality system.

Proton alternate membrane gas cells (PEMFCs) are a promising inexperienced vitality energy era know-how as a result of their excessive effectivity and low emissions. Nonetheless, the efficiency of PEMFCs is restricted by elements akin to kinetic traits, energy density, and value. A brand new research goals to optimize the circulation channel design of PEMFCs to reinforce their efficiency.

Of their article published in Frontiers in PowerYouliang Cheng and colleagues suggest a 2D topology-curvature optimization progressive design methodology to optimize the bend space buildings of serpentine circulation channels in PEMFCs. The tactic combines topology optimization with curvature optimization to enhance the mass switch and general efficiency of the gas cell.

The researchers used numerical simulations to check the topology-curvature optimization mannequin with algorithm-based optimization fashions and a validation mannequin. The research analyzed the mass transferwarmth switch traits, and output efficiency of PEMFCs underneath totally different circulation fields.

The outcomes point out that the optimized buildings considerably enhance convection and diffusion throughout the circulation area, enhancing the transport and distribution of oxygen and water throughout the PEMFC. The efficiency enhancements, ranked from highest to lowest, are TS-III > MD-G (Mannequin-GA) > MD-P (Mannequin-PSO) > TS-II > TS-I.

Among the many optimized fashions, TS-III (Topology Construction-III) displays the best will increase in peak present density and peak power densitywith enhancements of 4.72% and three.12%, respectively. When contemplating the connection between efficiency enchancment and stress drop utilizing the effectivity analysis criterion (EEC), TS-II demonstrates the most effective general efficiency.

This research offers a helpful methodology for optimizing the design of PEMFCs, which might result in important enhancements of their efficiency. The tactic provides a fast and correct approach to generate optimized structural fashions, lowering time and trial-and-error prices within the design course of.

The findings of this analysis may help advance the adoption of hydrogen gas cells in varied purposes, contributing to the worldwide effort in direction of carbon neutrality.

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