Optimization of gas diffusion layer thickness for high-temperature proton exchange membrane fuel cells

In high-temperature proton exchange membrane fuel cells (HT-PEMFCs), the thickness of the gas diffusion layer (GDL) can affect the transport and distribution of hydrogen and oxygen within the cell, thereby affecting the performance of the fuel cell. While too thin GDL can result in uneven reactant gas distribution, an excessively thick GDL increases resistance and hinders the transport of the gas to the catalyst layer. To optimize GDL thickness and enhance cell performance, this study employs a genetic algorithm (GA), using net battery output power as the objective function. Following optimization, fuel cell performance improved by 6.2%, with cathode and anode GDL thicknesses set at 0.1963 mm and 0.1125 mm, respectively. Reducing both anode and cathode GDL thicknesses promotes the rapid transport of hydrogen and oxygen to the catalyst layer (CL), facilitating more efficient reactions and enhancing fuel cell performance. A thinner cathode GDL ensures sufficient oxygen storage in the cathode compartment, further improving reaction dynamics compared to a thicker anode GDL.