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A Mathematical Model Of A Hydrogen/Oxygen Alkaline Fuel Cell, Michael C. Kimble, Ralph E. White

Faculty Publications

A mathematical model of a hydrogen/oxygen alkaline fuel cell is presented that can be used to predict polarization behavior under various potential loads. The model describes the phenomena occurring in the solid, liquid, and gaseous phases of the anode, separator, and cathode regions, assuming a macrohomogeneous, three-phase porous electrode structure. The model calculates the spatial variation of the partial pressures of oxygen, hydrogen, and water vapor, dissolved oxygen and hydrogen concentrations, electrolyte concentration, and the solid- and solution-phase potential drops. By developing a complete model of the alkaline fuel cell, the interaction of the various transport and kinetic resistances can …