Heat management in a portable high temperature PEM fuel cell module with open cathode

The development and characterisation of a portable high temperature PEM fuel cell module is presented. The module consists of a 5-cell stack with open cathodes and coil compression. This design enables the operation and control with only one fan and compact and lightweight packaging. The stack is characterised with polarisation curves and single cell impedance spectroscopy. Temperature distribution in the stack and temperature control is analysed during startup and operation. The results show very similar cell characteristics and stable operation with high power density. Temperature control shows a good reaction on load changes as well as on setpoint changes.