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