Energies (Jul 2018)
Reversible and Irreversible Potentials and an Inaccuracy in Popular Models in the Fuel Cell Literature
Abstract
Modeling is an integral part of fuel cell design and development. This paper identifies a long-standing inaccuracy in the fuel cell modeling literature. Specifically, it discusses an inexact insertion, in popular models, of cell/stack current into Nernst’s equation in the derivation of output (load) voltage. The origin of the inaccuracy is traced to the nature of reversible and irreversible potentials (equilibrium and non-equilibrium states) in the cell. The significance of the inaccuracy is explained in the context of the electrochemistry and thermodynamics of the fuel cell.
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