Analysis of fuel cell modelling
Student name: Ms Akanksha Oberoi
Guide: Dr O.P. Rao
Year of completion: 2013
Host Organisation: TATA Power SED, Mumbai
Supervisor (Host Organisation): Mr Devendra Goyal
Abstract: A fuel cell by definition is a device that converts chemical energy to electrical energy, which
unlike storage cells can be continuously fed with a fuel so that the electrical power output can
be sustained. Owing to their high energy efficiency, low pollution, and low noise, fuel cells
are widely regarded as 21stcentury energy-conversion devices that have varied applications,
such as, in mobile, stationary and portable power.
It is essential to understand the underlying reaction process occurring at the anode and
cathode when modelling fuel cells. The concepts of thermodynamics are useful in order to
calculate the fuel cell reaction potential difference between the anode and the cathode and the
fuel cell energy conversion efficiency. Therefore, fuel cell electrochemistry is very important
in order to determine or model basic electrode kinetics, activation over potential, currents and
potentials in a fuel cell. In order to design a simulator, a mathematical model of the fuel cell
needs to be developed. The internal working of the fuel cell needs to be studied and the
effects of various parameters need to be known.
Modelling helps us to base important decisions on accurate numerical data, which aims to
reduce the dependence on physical testing. It involves less risk and helps us to analyse the
various possible alternatives for design. Thus modelling serves as an excellent approach to
integrate R&D activities as well as the engineering design activities. It helps us to determine
those specific areas in which there is a need for experimentation, thus eliminating the
requirement for actual experimentation that would prove to be time-consuming and would
incur a certain cost as well.
It is possible to cover various aspects of fuel cell development and design through modelling.
Different simulation software are available that can be used for modelling various
phenomena. MATLAB is one such simulation tool which can be used for modelling.
Keywords: fuel cell, modelling, analysis, simulation
