Effects on the PEMFC Performance by Combination of Gas Distribution Plates and Gas Diffusion Medias

PEMFC performance is limited by different mass transport phenomena during operation as: mass transport (conduction and diffusion) of reactive gases, ionic species and products, electron conductivity and ionic conductivity. The reagents are distributed by conduction on the diffusion layer surface of electrodes through manufactured distribution channels in the polar plates. Subsequently, the reactive gases diffuse to the active layer, where the electro-chemical semi-reactions take place. However, geometry, size, diameter, porosity and other physical characteristics in the structural basic elements for fuel cells generate particularly effects on the Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell (PEMFC) performance. This paper includes an experimental comparison between different structural PEMFC designs; These designs combining different distribution plates and Gas Distribution Medias (GDM) in the PEMFC, by application of a 23 experimental design with 3 different membrane-electrodes assemblies and 3 cathodic pressure levels. The results show significant effects on the functionality and generated electrical power by the PEMFC directly related to mass transport conditions (including electron transport), depending on the combination, material nature, electrical and structural characteristics of applied materials.