Multi-parameter Analysis and Optimization Design of Proton Exchange Membrane Electrolytic Cell

Proton exchange membrane electrolytic cell has high potential in terms of high operating current density, high purity of generated gas, and coupling with intermittent energy sources. However, the phenomenon of heat and mass transfer inside the electrolytic cell during operation is complex, and the rules are different under different operating conditions, it is important to conduct the multi-parameter analysis of the cell and optimize the cell performance to promote future commercial application. A three-dimensional multi-physical field coupling model is developed for the PEMEC in this study. Multiple physical processes, including the fluid dynamics, electrochemical reaction kinetics, heat and mass transport, and phase transfer in porous media, are coupled to investigate the heat and mass transfer characteristics of the cell. Moreover, a multi-objective optimization design is conducted to optimize the working parameters based on the neural network regression model. Results indicate that the cell temperature has the noteworthy impact on the cell performance due to the influenced electrochemical reaction rate, and the increased flow rate accelerates the gas phase diffusion. The optimal design can effectively optimize the cell performance for various performance indicators. This study provides the theoretical support for further mechanism research on PEMEC and offers a new idea for optimizing the structure design of the cell to promote its commercial application.