In this study, we propose a configuration of partially blocked oxidant channel with baffle plates transversely inserted in the cathode channel and effects of the fluid dynamics due to the presence or non-presence of the baffles and their effect on the fuel cell performance is investigated. A 3D model with the presence of baffle plates is considered and a set of equations (continuity, momentum, species and charge together with electrochemical kinetics) in the form of single domain is developed and solved numerically. The baffles block the main flow in the cathode channel and force more reactant gases to turn to the GDL. This fact implies an enhancement of the oxygen flux at the GDL and catalyst surface, especially at the position beneath the location of the baffle plates. An increase in the number of baffles contribute to the reactant gas transport to GDL with more uniform distribution of gas in the GDL and catalyst layer, specially in high current densities, where it leads to a penalty of high pressure – loss. The predictions indicate that the local transport of the reactant gas would enhance the local current densities and the fuel cell performance in presence of baffle in the channel.

Keywords: PEMFC, baffle, Oxygen transport, Pressure drop, Fuel cell performance

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