Proton exchange membrane fuel cell subzero start-up with hydrogen catalytic reaction assistance.

The speed of the subzero start-up of proton exchange membrane fuel cells is a hot research topic. However, the cost of the start-up of proton exchange membrane fuel cell is an important factor that affects their commercialization. In this paper, a reused gas cold-start method is developed. Hydrogen–air mixture is introduced to the anode of the fuel cell, and the exhausted gas from the anode is introduced to the cathode. Thermal equilibrium at −20 °C start-up of the fuel cell is calculated. The best gas ratio is confirmed by the start-up process at −20 °C.The fuel consumption and hydrogen utilization of the reused gas cold start and the conventional catalytic reaction cold start are compared. 1/4 is the optimal ration of air/hydrogen. The catalytic reactions take place simultaneously in the anode and the cathode of the fuel cell in there used gas cold-start method, thereby saving energy and time during start up. With this method, the fuel cell can start-up at−40 °C, and the performance of the fuel cell does not seem to change after the cold-start process. • Thermal equilibrium at −20 °C start-up of the fuel cell was calculated. • The catalytic reaction method using exhaust gas can fully utilize the un-reacted mixed gas. • With this method, PEMFC can start-up at −40 °C within 67s. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]