Calculation procedure for mass transfer in fuel cells

An analysis of mass transfer losses, or concentration over-potentials in fuel cells is provided. An elementary theory, based on an equivalent film thickness, as proposed in some texts, is derived. This is followed by a more rigorous theoretical treatment of mass transfer theory, for which the mass transfer factor is obtained as a function of the driving force. The solution for the driving force is derived, for the well-known one-dimensional convection–diffusion problem. It is shown that mass transfer in planar and square geometries approximates this idealised situation. A linearised theory, appropriate for low mass flow rates is also presented. The methodology is illustrated using the simple example of a solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC). It is shown that the simplified theory is only applicable for very dilute binary mixtures. A step-by-step procedure for computing mass transfer in fuel cells is detailed, together with a discussion of the scope and range of application of the results.