Topology Optimization Design of Bipolar Plates for Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells Based on Genetic Algorithm

With regard to the structural problems of uneven gas distribution, large pressure drop, and low mass transfer efficiency faced by the bipolar plate of proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFC), a topology optimization design method based on genetic algorithm was developed. By defining two objective functions, namely pressure drop uniformity and oxygen transfer efficiency, an optimization model of structural parameters was constructed. Real number coding and NSGA-II algorithm were used to carry out multi-objective evolutionary search. CFD simulation was used to verify the structural performance before and after optimization. The optimized structure performed outstandingly in reducing pressure drop and improving mass transfer efficiency, and has the potential for engineering application.