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.

Keywords

• fuel cell model
• fuel cell stack
• hydrogen
• Nernst equation
• proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC)
• solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC)