Pressure and flow rate monitoring in PEM fuel cells by embedded flexible micro-sensors

Pressure and flow rate are critical parameters associated with the performance of proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs). Fuel cell flooding can be diagnosed by monitoring pressure drops. Flow rate is related to optimized operation of fuel cells and fuel cell aging. Previous research measured pressures at the flow channel inlet and outlet. However, determining the pressure distribution and flow rate inside PEMFCs is difficult. In this study, flexible micro-sensors are embedded into the flow channels to measure internal in situ pressures and flows of PEMFCs. These micro-sensors integrate micro pressure sensors and flow sensors via the micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS).