Validation of a methodology for determining the PEM fuel cell complex impedance modelling parameters

Abstract : In this paper, we present a new methodology for determining the complex impedance parameters for a Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) Fuel Cell in order to have a general model for embedded diagnosis. The modelling of Fuel Cells is a very important phase because it contributes to a better understanding and representation of the internal phenomena in this type of generator. After obtaining the experimental results of the complex impedance using a realized test bench for Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) Fuel Cell using an electrochemical method which is the electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), we treat these results with an identification algorithm based on least squares method in the objective to determine the variations laws of the complex impedance parameters then implement in a PEM Fuel Cell model with Matlab/Simulink software. The established model of the complex impedance is based on electrical components and takes into account the mathematical equations of the different elements. The simulation results of this implemented model inform us about the state of the PEM Fuel Cell and validate the choice of the parameters. The validation of this choice is done by a comparative study using residual analysis method between the experimental and the simulation results. The general model is obtained from the superposition of the measured and theoretical results.