Optimization of sinusoidal wave-like channel design for HT-PEMFCs based on genetic algorithm

Designing and optimizing the channel structure improves the performance of high-temperature proton exchange membrane fuel cells (HT-PEMFCs). This work introduced a parallel sinusoidal wave-like channel design. Investigated the influence of the amplitude of the channel center and the number of sinusoidal periods of a parallel sinusoidal wave-like channel on the characteristics of fuel cells using a three-dimensional simulation model created with COMSOL Multiphysics. The research findings demonstrate that, compared to the conventional straight channels in HT-PEMFCs, the mass transfer capabilities of the parallel sinusoidal wave-like channels are superior, effectively enhancing the comprehensive performance of fuel cells. In addition, a genetic algorithm (GA) was employed to selectively improve the waveforms of the parallel sinusoidal wave-like channels based on the output power and pumping power consumption of cells. According to the ultimate optimization results indicate that when the center amplitude is 0.2915 mm and the number of sinusoidal periods is 25.9743, the net power density of the parallel sinusoidal wave-like channel increases by 6.16%.