On the distribution of local current density along a PEM fuel cell cathode channel

We report analysis of a recent model for local current density distribution along the air channel in a PEM fuel cell. Analytical solution for the case of small cell ohmic resistivity is obtained. An algorithm for numerical solution of the model equations is developed for practically important case when the cell polarization curve and ohmic resistivity are known. Good agreement between the calculated and experimental shapes of the local current density is demonstrated. Cell ohmic resisitivty greatly homogenizes the distribution of local current. A Python code for local current calculation is available for download. •A recent model for the distribution of local current along the PEM fuel cell channel is analysed.•In the case of low ohmic losses analytical solution is obtained.•In the general case, the model is solved numerically; a Python code is available for download.•Comparison with the experimental data shows a good quality of the model.