Quantitative modeling and bio-inspired optimization the clamping load on the bipolar plate in PEMFC

Clamping load impacts the contact area, resistance, sealing and heat generation of fuel cell stacks, the uneven distribution of clamping load decreases the durability of PEMFC stacks, therefore it is essential to quantitative modeling the pressure distribution and improve the imbalance distribution issue. In this paper, a quantitative model is proposed to characterize the pressure distribution on bipolar plates. A theoretical model is established based on both finite element modeling (FEM) and measurement, and the flexible pressure sensors are applied in the established test systems. Furthermore, a nacre-inspired optimization approach is applied to improve the uneven pressure distributions based on the quantitative model. Results indicate that the optimized design can significantly improve the uneven clamping load, and it provides an effective approach for the design of durable PEMFC stacks.