Analysing operando 2D X-ray transmission images for liquid water distribution in polymer electrolyte fuel cells

X-ray imaging has been instrumental to the understanding of liquid water distribution in polymer electrolyte fuel cells (PEFCs) to inform water management strategies. In this work, rapid X-ray radiographic imaging is proposed as a complement to the more commonly used three-dimensional (3D) X-ray com...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:	Journal of power sources Vol. 564; p. 232820
Main Authors:	Aroge, F.A., Parimalam, B.S., MacDonald, J.A., Orfino, F.P., Dutta, M., Kjeang, E.
Format:	Journal Article
Language:	English
Published:	Elsevier B.V 30-04-2023
Subjects:	Gas diffusion layer Liquid water distribution Operando X-ray radiographic microscopy Polymer electrolyte fuel cell Liquid water distribution Gas diffusion layer Operando X-ray radiographic microscopy Polymer electrolyte fuel cell
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Summary:	X-ray imaging has been instrumental to the understanding of liquid water distribution in polymer electrolyte fuel cells (PEFCs) to inform water management strategies. In this work, rapid X-ray radiographic imaging is proposed as a complement to the more commonly used three-dimensional (3D) X-ray computed tomography for operando liquid water visualization. Operando radiographs offer an opportunity to expose liquid water distribution characteristics over a shorter time which may be elusive to 3D approaches. Using a sequence of microscale radiographs and developed analysis framework, additional insights on the operando liquid water dynamics are revealed, including breakthrough patterns and associated time-dependent characteristics. Results reveal an initial transient behaviour in the buildup of liquid water both in the volume and number of breakthrough points. Further analysis of breakthrough data shows that liquid water breakthrough points exhibit randomness with a persistence of about 54% of the observation time on average. These results show the capability of the proposed workflow which combines rapid imaging at high resolution with minimal intrusiveness and exposure damage using a relatively inexpensive lab-based technique. In combination with 3D imaging, the method presented will extend the capabilities of X-ray imaging for future PEFC liquid water visualization efforts. [Display omitted] •Operando radiographs are used to elucidate liquid water breakthrough behaviour.•A framework for quantifying liquid water from operando X-ray images is presented.•Eruptive breakthrough of liquid water droplets under the channel is revealed.•Liquid water breakthrough pathways vary significantly during fuel cell operation.
ISSN:	0378-7753 1873-2755
DOI:	10.1016/j.jpowsour.2023.232820