This thesis addresses the development of a system-level model of the anode-side balance-of-plant of a fuel-cell stack, intended for analyzing and optimizing operating conditions. The model is based on a physically and chemically consistent description of the support system and includes key components such as an injector humidifier, a return manifold, the anode flow field, the catalyst layer and the proton-exchange membrane. The individual component models were appropriately upgraded and implemented in Python and coupled to an existing cathode-side model.
The integrated model enables a comprehensive analysis of system response across a wide range of steady-state and dynamic operating regimes. In a physics-based manner, it models transport, electrical, and electrochemical processes and their temporal evolution, as confirmed by successful validation against experimental data. The model therefore provides a reliable and efficient tool for further optimization of the design and operation of the fuel-cell stack.
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