A system-level modeling framework for predicting Pt catalyst degradation in proton exchange membrane fuel cells

Enhancing the durability of fuel cell components, especially the platinum catalyst, remains a significant challenge for proton exchange membrane fuel cells in transportation applications. The long-term optimal performance and high durability of fuel cells rely on appropriate system-level operations and controls, while an accuracy model able to predict the fuel cell degradation evolution is essential to support such a control design. In this study, an innovative dual-scale modeling framework comprising a multi-physics model and a Pt catalyst degradation model designed for PEM fuel cells is presented. Specifically, we propose a physics-based degradation model for the Pt catalyst, which takes into account various factors influencing platinum nanoparticle distribution, the multi-physics model interacts with the degradation model to provide the real-time fuel cell’s internal state, and interpret the catalyst degradation in the fuel cell performance. The developed dual-scale model is tested against the experimental data obtained from a range of accelerated stress tests and vehicle driving cycle tests. The test results demonstrate interesting agreements between the model predictions and experimental data. The potential of the proposed model framework in fuel cell degradation prediction and optimal control design is therefore justified. •Improving platinum catalyst durability in PEM fuel cells for transport applications.•Innovative dual-scale model combines multi-physics and degradation model for platinum catalyst.•Framework enables optimal control strategies to mitigate degradation effects.•Model reliability supported by validation against stress tests and real-world data, including NEDC.