Finite element analysis of a fuel cell membrane-electrode assembly under compression. Paper no. IGEC-1-014

Computational fuel cell dynamics (Ccd) has progressed rapidly during the past two decades. To date, fuel cell models have used idealized, isotropic representations of membrane electrode assemblies (Mea). This project uses finite element analysis (Fea) to examine deviations from ideality due to the effects of compression on the fuel cell Mea. A simple two-dimensional analysis is performed to examine the key parameters and set the groundwork for future three-dimensional modeling work. It is noted that variations in gas diffusion layer (Gdl) thickness will affect electron conductivity, gas transport, and water transport. Results show it is important to include deformation effects in channel scale Ccd models. (author)