Design and development of a fuel cell stack for hybrid power systems in small robot application

Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells (PEMFC) are the most appropriate energy source for small robot applications. PEMFC is superior in power density and thermodynamic efficiency as compared with the Direct Methanol Fuel Cell (DMFC). Furthermore, PEMFC is lighter weight and smaller in size than DMFC, which are very important factors for small robot power systems. Operating conditions and fabricating methods are of key importance to fuel cell performance and efficiency. In this study, analysis of pressure drop, concentration variation, deformation of GDL and electrolyte, and stack clamping pressure were completed for a 500 watt PEM fuel cell stack. Several novel designs were discussed and will be continuously studied.