// Deutsches Zentrum für Luft- und Raumfahrt e.V. (DLR)

Functional / Performance testing of PEM fuel cell stacks (WP 2)

Jens Mitzel

The definition and validation of generic and application specific test modules in this work package addresses the key functional and performance parameters of the stack and include steady state and dynamic test modules. Steady state tests are bothering current-voltage curves, sensitivity to fuel and oxidant stoichiometry, temperature, humidification and pressure.

Dynamic test modules include power, pressure or temperature transients. The generic procedures are describing requirements to the test station and its interfaces which are of particular importance to the dynamic test modules. The establishment and validation of the generic test modules will be observed of compliance with the application specific test programs and consider any relevant feedback from these activities.

Objectives:

• Development and experimental validation of generic test modules for functional / performance testing of PEM fuel cell stacks
• Development and experimental validation of application specific test programs for PEM fuel cell stacks to address automotive and light traction, stationary and portable applications.

Based on existing test modules for PEM single cells and stacks available from project partners as well as from FCTESTNET and FCTESQA and observing the results of the international standards analysis, the most relevant test modules will be selected and worked out in the framework of the harmonized test format.

Efficiency of the stack will be determined and measured based on the interfaces established for specific system architectures and applications. All relevant aspects contributing to efficiency will be addressed in the generic test modules to be further used in the application of specific test programs. The generic test modules will include definitions of the test equipment and the required sensitivity of metering physical quantities and minimum instrument calibration requirements.

After drafting, the generic test modules will be subject to an initial validation. Following a review of the test modules, a second series of validation will take place completed by a final round robin test to ensure comparability of results obtained in different test laboratories. One stack will be circulated among different laboratories which are applying identical test modules to the stack.

The test matrix will then be worked out in further detail and the relevant tests.