This app allows convenient definition, inspection, and calculation of Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) and Solid Oxide Fuel Cell (SOFC) performance. Features are available via three tabs:
1. MODEL:
Model PEM and SOFC performance in a common form using the standard cell potential with Nernst term and loss terms for activation, ohmic, and diffusion polarizations.
2. INSPECT:
Inspect the model by plotting voltage and power curves as a function of current density. Loss terms can be toggled on/off using the provided switches. The plot updates showing the impact on performance, thus illustrating each terms effect.
3. CALCULATE:
Calculate cell and stack voltages as well as stack power and power density as a function of stack design and current density. Enter data for current density, active cell area, and number of cells. Cell voltage can be either entered manually or calculated from the model.
A review from the UK:
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Very interesting and useful... 5 STARS
by M J Provost - Version 1.2 - Dec 24, 2012
This app clearly shows how ideal fuel cell voltage and power are affected by activation, ohmic and concentration losses. The user can set up each loss term using either the basic electrochemical formulae or the simplified versions (as used in various textbooks, eg Larminie & Dicks), and see the effects on overall voltage and power by switching each term on or off at will. There is also the ability to compare actual and modelled voltage. Overall, a great effort: for those in the industry, the convenience of having this capability and memory jogger in your pocket is well worth the price. The app works satisfactorily on my iPad Mini as well. The developers seem to be very knowledgeable, and respond quickly to feedback.