The Use of MATLAB Programming to Compare Experimental vs Modeled PEMFCs using the Nernst and Butler-Volmer’s Equation-Based Mathematical Models

Bishwash Paneru; Biplov Paneru; Nitish Pandey; Kabita Neupne; Pukar Adhikari; Ramhari Poudyal

Bishwash Paneru Department of Applied Sciences and Chemical Engineering, IOE, TU, Nepal
Biplov Paneru Department of Electronics Engineering, Pokhara University, Bhaktapur, Nepal
Nitish Pandey Department of Applied Sciences and Chemical Engineering, Kathmandu, Nepal
Kabita Neupne Department of Applied Sciences and Chemical Engineering, Kathmandu, Nepal
Pukar Adhikari Department of Applied Sciences and Chemical Engineering, Kathmandu, Nepal
Ramhari Poudyal Department of Electrical Engineering, Hist Engineering College, Purwanchal University, Nepal

Keywords: Butler-Volmer equation, MATLAB, PEMFC, Nernst equation, Sensitivity analysis

Abstract

For the analysis of Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell (PEMFC’s) efficiency, the Nernst equation and Butler-Volmer's concepts were used. The mathematical models using both equations were developed in MATLAB and compiled. The results generated by the output current based on the input parameters of the experimental data were compared with the experimental results for the two modelled PEMFCs. The parameters temperature, pressure, hydrogen concentration, and oxygen concentration at different values of external resistance were used to determine the change in output current in both models built in MATLAB. This sensitivity analysis generated negative output current values and highly dissimilar values with the experimental results for the same input parameters for both models due to the less use of input parameters in the model. The results showed that the PEMFC's performance is affected by most parameters, and many influencing parameters must be used to develop a perfect mathematical model of the PEMFC.

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