Feasibility analysis of polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells on standard automotive load cycles

The demand for alternative energy sources and higher efficiency vehicles is driving automotive and energy interests alike to new frontiers. One promising alternative technology for power generation is hydrogen fuel cells. This study looks to test typical load cycles of a vehicle on a stack of Polymer Electrolyte Membrane (PEMFC) fuel cells to determine standard operating characteristics of the cells. Using a PEMFC unit, an electronic load will simulate scaled down standard automotive load cycles to test performance characteristics of the fuel cell system. Expected results will display real world operating conditions of the high-efficiency stack to determine feasibility and aid in future design improvements.