Influence of operational parameters on the performance of PEMFCs with serpentine flow field channels having different (rectangular and trapezoidal) cross-section shape

The effect of operational parameters on the performance of PEMFCs by using serpentine flow field channels with different (rectangular and trapezoidal) cross-section shape has been investigated. More than cell temperature and pressure, reactant humidification temperature (Tha,c) has a significant influence on the effect of serpentine channels with trapezoidal cross-section on cell performance. The high capability of water removal by serpentine channels with trapezoidal cross-section positively affects the fuel cell performance when the water content in the system is high, as in the case of the reactant humidification temperature higher than cell temperature (Tc). On the contrary, when the water content in the cell is low, as in the case of Tha,c = Tc, the high ability of water removal of serpentine channels with trapezoidal cross-section results in a less effective membrane/cathode hydration. Conversely, the effect of Tha,c on the performance of the cell with serpentine channels with rectangular cross-section is negligible. •The performance of PEMFCs with different cross-section of serpentine channels was investigated.•For Tha,c > Tc the trapezoidal cross-section shape was more effective.•For Tha,c = Tc the rectangular cross-section shape was more successful.•The trapezoidal cross-section shape showed a high ability to water removal from the cathode.