Simulations Of The PEMFC Catalyst Layer By Monte Carlo Method

Fuel cell technology is considered to be a promising clean power generating technology in the future. Catalyst layer is a vital component of fuel cells and its performance has great effects on the fuel cell performance. Modeling the catalyst layer could discover its optimal structure and give direction to its preparation.Firstly, based on the mixed conductor hypothesis, a two phase model of the catalyst layer is constructed using Monte Carlo technique. The effects of porosity, catalyst initial aggregation coefficient and the thickness of the catalyst layer on the catalyst utilization coefficient and the catalyst tortuosity are discussed with this model.Secondly, by treating Nafion and Pt/C grain separately, a more detailed Nafion-Pt/C-Pore three phase model is constructed. The effects of porosity, Nafion volume fraction, Pt/C mean diameter on the catalyst utilization coefficient and the catalyst layer tortuosity are discussed. The effects of the Pt weight fraction of the Pt/C is also discussed.Finally, Simulation results show the optimal porosity, Nafion volume fraction and Pt weight fraction, which could give guidance to the catalyst layer preparation.