The Influence of a Novel Bio-Cell Flow Field Pattern on the Performance and Operating Conditions for a PEM Fuel Cell

A novel bio-cell flow field pattern is experimentally investigated by determining fuel cell performance and optimal operating conditions. The cell performance is analyzed by the polarization curve and the long-term stability. The bio-cell flow channel structure has a main feed track, a secondary branch track, and repeats to promote water removal from gas diffusion layer. The performance of the bio-cell flow field pattern is optimal performance when the cell is operated with low humidity gases and low cell temperature. In addition, the bio-cell flow field exhibits stable performance for non-humidified air. The fuel cell with the novel bio-cell flow field has advantages for low relative humidity operations. The results of the bio-cell flow field could potentially simplify fuel cell system design without humidifiers.