Microscale simulations of reaction and mass transport in cathode catalyst layer of polymer electrolyte fuel cell

The resistance of the cathode oxygen reduction reaction in polymer electrolyte fuel cells must be reduced for improving performance. Therefore, it is important to thoroughly understand relationship between heterogeneous structures and cell However, difficult obtain such an understanding using experimental approaches typical uniform porous simulations. In this study, numerical analysis was used simulate a three-dimensional catalyst layer (CL) with carbon black (CB) aggregate ionomer coating models, mass transport simulation model incorporating structure developed. Moreover, electrode performance, including distribution output examined. current density depended on CB adhesion shape. From viewpoint enhancing both Pt utilization adequate pore CL necessary. These results were determine optimal material properties high performance cell. • Simulation 3D Heterogeneous simulated. Ionomer affect transport, cause distribution. Local surface changed bi-modal by agglomerate. Effective estimated simulation.