Design equations for optimized PEM fuel cell electrodes

This paper presents simple mathematical expressions that can be used for op timizing fuel cell electrode structures, specifically polymer electrolyte m embrane fuel cells (PEMFCs). Based on the effectiveness factor, equations r elate current density to catalyst utilization and a mass transfer coefficie nt. These can be used to screen new materials or identify which specific pr ocesses need to be improved in an existing electrode design. The optimum th ickness, or catalyst loading, and maximum current that can be achieved with a given set of materials can be calculated from a simple set of equations based on the mass transfer characteristics of the electrode materials. Thes e methods can save considerable experimental time and cost during electrode development.