In Situ Experimental Technique for Measurement of Temperature and Current Distribution in Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells

Abstract

Current distribution data is vital for improved fuel cell designs and improved performance. However, none of the common current mapping techniques is simple to perform and often compromise the design and operation of the fuel cell. By comparison, local temperature measurements with thermocouples are easier to set up and can be done in an unobtrusive way with minimal impact on the fuel cell. Our results show that current mapping can be indirectly conducted through local temperature measurements and have the potential to provide in situ high-resolution data capable of following load cycling and use in real applications.