Investigation of Anode Water Transport in PEMFC Using Pressure Drop and Visualization Techniques

Abstract

This proposed study presents an in-situ experimental approach for investigating anode-side water dynamics through detailed analysis of pressure-drop data measured across multiple segments of bipolar plate flow channels. A theoretical model was first developed to predict pressure-drop profiles and liquid-water distribution in parallel multiphase flow channels. Based on the model, a bipolar plate with integrated multi-point pressure sensors was designed to enable real-time, spatially resolved monitoring of gas–liquid dynamics and provide advanced diagnostic capabilities. The proposed system was successfully implemented in a single Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell (PEMFC) with an active area of 282 cm2, which allows accurate identification of the timing and location of flooding events during operation. Experimental results showed that inadequate water management can cause flooding under steady-state conditions, while water accumulation is more prominent during startup and load-reduction processes. Additionally, the effects of reactant flow rate, humidity, and circulating water temperature on water distribution within the channels were systematically evaluated. Based on these findings, a closed-loop diagnostic and control framework is proposed by enabling dynamic adjustment of operating parameters according to pressure-drop characteristics for real-time optimization of water management and improved fuel cell performance.