Fuel cell modelling for building cogeneration applications

Fuel cell technologies are an emerging alternative to conventional electrical generation and cogeneration technologies, offering the potential for higher efficiencies and substantially fewer harmful emissions. To investigate the usefulness of fuel cell systems in building cogeneration applications, researchers require a model that can predict the performance of such a system under different operating conditions.; In this work, a steady-state cogeneration Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) Fuel Cell Component Model (PFCCM) was developed and integrated into the ESP-r building simulation program. The PFCCM is a parametric model that permits the user to specify the system size, reaction stoichiometries, reactor operating temperatures and data describing the efficiency of various subsystems. Using these data, the PFCCM can predict the electricity and heat produced, and fuel used by a fuel cell system as it responds to conditions in the building.; The PFCCM is comprised of (1) an electrochemical model that can predict the efficiency at which electricity is produced in the fuel cell stack, (2) a fuel cell system model that can predict the thermal behavior of the reaction vessels and auxiliary systems, and (3) a cogeneration heat recovery model that can predict the amount of surplus heat that can be recovered from the fuel cell system for use in space and domestic hot water heating.; The PFCCM electrochemical model is based on the linear voltage-current characteristics of low temperature fuel cell systems, and the fuel cell system model was developed by applying the First Law of Thermodynamics to each reactor. The potential for heat recovery in the fuel cell system was estimated using Pinch Analysis techniques in the fuel cell system model and cogeneration heat recovery model. (Abstract shortened by UMI.)...