In-phase current and temperature oscillations reduce PEM fuel cell resistivity: A modeling study

We have developed a non-isothermal analytical model for the impedance of the cathode catalyst layer (CCL) in a PEM fuel cell. In-phase harmonic perturbations to the current density and temperature reduce the impedance and the static polarisation resistivity of the CCL due to lowering proton transport losses. A special selection of the current and temperature perturbation amplitudes allows for complete elimination of these losses. • A model for the catalyst layer impedance, including temperature perturbations, is developed. • Oscillating in-phase current density and temperature reduce PEM fuel cell impedance. • They also reduce static cell resistivity.