Parameterization and validation of a lumped parameter diffusion model for fuel cell stack membrane humidity estimation

We present here a model for estimating the electrode humidity of a proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) stack. We use this model to develop a nonlinear open loop estimator of the membrane humidity based on monitoring the pressure and temperature entering and exiting the electrodes, as well as the upstream humidity of each electrode. This lumped parameter model, calibrated and experimentally validated, quantifies the average vapor mass transport across a 24 cell, PEMFC stack of 1.4 kW continuous power output. The experimental method devised here for the parameterization of the model is simple and reproducible. The estimator can be used to develop a systematic procedure for warming up and humidifying PEMFC stacks prior to connection of a load.