A Study on Performance Characteristics of Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cell withOrdered Microstructural Designed Gas Diffusion Layer

Objectives:
Modelling and simulation of the mathematically defined microstructure GDL in a PEMFC on a standalone GDL and integrated flow field GDL with varying properties.
Experimental study on the performance of the manufactured GDL.
Correlate experimental findings with the theoretical model to discuss the transport problems in the PEMFC.


Expected Outcomes:
One of the key issues with the currently used GDL is the water management inside the fuel cell. To address the issue, this study will focus on a novel approach of using gas diffusion layer (GDL) in a polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell (PEMFCs). Conventionally manufactured GDL have random microstructural designs each time they are manufactured which leads to difficulty in optimization. The mathematical model can provide a deeper understanding of what the design of GDL can play a role in water transport. Since the available manufacturing techniques are still in developmental stages, the GDL they produce are expected to lack in performance as compared to the conventional GDL. Nevertheless, it provides insights into this new approach of manufacturing and using GDL in a fuel cell.

Supervisors from host and Partner Universities

  • Assoc. Prof. Biraj Singh Thapa, Kathmandu University, Nepal
  • Prof. Frode Seland, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Norway
  • Prof. Jan Torgersen, Technical University of Munich, Germany

About myself

Hey! I’m someone who loves exploring how we can make energy and the environment work better together. I’ve spent about three years learning and doing cool stuff in energy sector. I’m not just about work—I’m the person who can talk about academics and then switch to planning a fun camping trip or chatting about the latest football game. I really enjoy being outdoors, whether it’s playing football or going on a hike. I’m good at learning things quickly and working well in a team. I am always eager to try out new hobbies, but sometimes I can’t find time for it. When I am not working or enjoying one of my hobbies you will find me embracing the simple pleasure of doing absolutely nothing. So, whether it’s
understanding energy or setting up a campfire, count me in for making life interesting!

Samrat KC
PhD Candidate
14ksamrat@gmail.com
2022 Batch

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