**Heat Transfer, Combustion, and Energy**

262 Fluid Dynamics, Computational Modeling and Applications

Tezduyar, T., Mittal, S., Ray, S., & Shih, R. (1992). Incompressible flow computations with

Udoewa, V. (2005). *Computational Techniques for Aerodynamic Interactions between.* Rice

*Methods in Applied Mechanics and Engineering, 95*, 221-242.

University: Mechanical Engineering and Material Science.

stabilized bilinear and linear equal-order-interpolation velocity pressure. *Computer* 

**12** 

*Spain* 

**Fluid Flow in Polymer Electrolyte** 

Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cells (PEMFC) have attracted significant interest during the last few decades, as they are considered to be one of the most promising alternative clean power generation devices for portable, mobile and stationary applications. However, different technological barriers such as cost, durability, or heat and water management, are limiting the implementation of fuel cell systems into the global energy markets, and therefore significant

Fuel cells are devices where electrochemical reactions transform chemical energy available in fuels into electrical energy. Fuel cells are not limited by the thermodynamic restrictions of conventional power generation systems, such as the Carnot efficiency, meaning that fuel cells can be operated with higher efficiency for energy conversion. Additionally, the environmental impact is low as no combustion processes occurs and no pollutants are



Single or unit cells are the core of a fuel cell. They convert the chemical energy contained in a fuel into electrical energy, via electrochemical reactions. The basic configuration of a fuel cell consists of an electrolyte layer or membrane in contact with an anode and a cathode on

In a PEM fuel cell, hydrogen is continuously supplied to the anode or negative electrode, and an oxidant, often oxygen or air, is also continuously supplied to the cathode or positive electrode. Electrochemical reactions occur at the electrodes, generating an electric current through the electrolyte thus driving the corresponding electric current that performs the

At the anode, hydrogen is fed to the cell and a reaction takes place at the catalyst layer:

**1. Introduction** 

research efforts and investments are being carried out.

generated (U.S. Department of Energy [DOE], 2004).

required power capacity.

functions.

electric work on the load.

either side.

A typical fuel cell power system consists of different components: - Single cells, where the electrochemical reactions occur.

Alfredo Iranzo, Antonio Salva and Felipe Rosa *Thermal Engineering Group, Energy Engineering Department* 

<sup>2</sup> 2 44 *H He* → ++ − (1)

**Membrane Fuel Cells** 

*School of Engineering, University of Seville* 
