Dynamic Models and Model Validation for PEM Fuel Cells Using Electrical Circuits

This paper presents the development of dynamic models for proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cells using electrical circuits. The models have been implemented in MATLAB/SIMULINK and PSPICE environments. Both the double-layer charging effect and the thermodynamic characteristic inside the fuel cell are included in the models. The model responses obtained at steady-state and transient conditions are validated by experimental data measured from an Avista Labs SR-12 500-W PEM fuel-cell stack. The models could be used in PEM fuel-cell control related studies.