Randomized trial investigates mass transport properties in microporous layers, suggesting design improvements for efficiency.
Key Points
This research aims to clarify the relationship between the microstructure of microporous layers and their mass transport properties to enhance fuel cell performance.
Developed a three-dimensional model using a stochastic reconstruction method.
Utilized a random walk algorithm to analyze effects of various parameters on permeability and diffusivity.
Assessed porosity, carbon sphere radius, maximum overlap ratio, seed ratio, and PTFE content.
Increasing porosity reduces tortuosity from 1.7 to 1.3, and enhances permeability by approximately 6.5 times.
Increasing carbon sphere radius lowers tortuosity from 1.55 to 1.35, while permeability rises from 2 × 10−16 m2 to 20 × 10−16 m2.
Higher PTFE content boosts permeability from 5 × 10−16 m2 to 22.5 × 10−16 m2, an enhancement of about 4.5 times.