Training Course: Fuel Cell and Electrolyzer Modeling in COMSOL Multiphysics^® (Paid)

The Fuel Cell & Electrolyzer Module add-on to COMSOL Multiphysics^® provides a wide range of functionality for high-fidelity modeling and simulation of fuel cells. If you are a new or experienced user of COMSOL Multiphysics^® who wants to learn about fuel cell and electrolyzer modeling, this online training course is for you. Join our 5-day program to explore and deepen your understanding of the Fuel Cell & Electrolyzer Module.

The course will begin at an introductory level with an understanding of how to build and mesh geometry and then transition to the basic concepts for modeling different types of fuel cells. We will walk through the techniques used for water management in fuel cells, including multiphase flow simulations and bubble generation. We will also discuss coupling with other physics, such as heat transfer and structural mechanics. Finally, we will delve into modeling a fuel cell stack, balance-of-plant (BOP) equipment, as well as hydrogen storage systems.

This course will run from June 3–7 and will include a final Q&A session on Monday, June 10.

Schedule

Day 1

Session 1: Introduction to COMSOL Multiphysics^®, Geometry, and Meshing

2:30–5 p.m. IST

In this session, we will introduce and showcase the capabilities of COMSOL Multiphysics^®. We will familiarize you with the UI and modeling workflow of the software and then introduce you to the different tools available in COMSOL Multiphysics^®, including various meshing features. We will cover geometry import, repair, and defeaturing as well as advanced geometry operations, such as working with parametric geometry features. After this session, you will be able to create 3D geometries.

Next, we will cover structured and unstructured meshing and special meshing techniques, including boundary layer meshing, mesh convergence studies, automatic remeshing, and time-dependent remeshing. After this session, you will be comfortable in formulating a basic problem in COMSOL Multiphysics^®.

In the hands-on exercise, we will set up a multiphysics electric fuse model and analyze the working condition of the electrical fuse. At the end of the session you will be able to answer:

• What is the optimal thickness of the electrical fuse?
• Which material is suitable for the given specifications?

Day 2

Q&A for Session 1

2–2:30 p.m. IST

Session 2: Introduction to Fuel Cells & Electrolyzers — Cell-Level Modeling

2:30–5 p.m. IST

This session will focus on the basics of modeling fuel cells along with various equations and interfaces available in the COMSOL^® software to predict the current, potential distribution, and chemical species in a fuel cell. Modeling techniques for studying different types of fuel cells and electrolyzers — including proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs), hydroxide exchange (alkaline) fuel cells (AFCs), and solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) — will be discussed.

The following topics will be covered:

• Best possible utilization and operation for a given set of conditions
• Factors affecting performance and lifespan
• Microscopic aspects of gas diffusion electrodes and the active layer, such as catalyst loading, particle size distribution, and bimodal pore distribution

In the hands-on exercise, we will set up a model of a fuel cell cathode with liquid water. Liquid water is produced using a rate expression for vapor condensation, depending on the relative humidity level in the gas phase.

By the end of this session, you will be able to:

• Evaluate cell performance with and without liquid water
• Perform a parametric sweep of relevant parameters

Day 3

Q&A for Session 2

2–2:30 p.m. IST

Session 3: Two-Phase Flow in Fuel Cells & Electrolyzers

2:30–5 p.m. IST

This session will focus on understanding the simulation techniques used for water management in fuel cells. You will gain deep insight into simulation of multiphase flow in COMSOL Multiphysics^® and its applications for fuel cells and electrolyzers.

Key topics covered:

• Analysis of mass sources and sinks originating from electrochemical reactions, transport of ions, and chemical species
• Applications of fluid flow and phase transport in various media

In the hands-on exercise, we will model an alkaline electrolyzer with two-phase systems. The model will include electrochemical currents and characteristics. At the end of the session, you will be able to:

• Perform single-phase electrolyzer operations and polarization curve analysis
• Model bubble generation during operation and its effect

Day 4

Q&A for Session 3

2–2:30 p.m. IST

Session 4: Thermal & Structural Modeling of Fuel Cells and Electrolyzers

2:30–5 p.m. IST

This session will be an introduction to thermal and structural modeling of fuel cells and electrolyzers. We will discuss in detail structural effects due to various operation conditions as well as multiphysics couplings, such as thermal expansion or thermal stress. The key points for this session will cover:

• Structural considerations in a cell and stack
• Thermal management of a cell and stack
• Manufacturing and operational considerations

In the hands-on exercise, we will model the thermal behavior of a PEMFC, including electrochemical modeling of cell operations. At the end of the session, you will be able to analyze:

• How the performance of the fuel cell changes under thermal loads
• Thermal distribution along with coolant flow

Day 5

Q&A for Session 4

2–2:30 p.m. IST

Session 5: Stack & Balance-of-Plant (BOP) Modeling

2:30–5 p.m. IST

This session will be an introduction to stack modeling, including several details of the stack such as flow field, bipolar plates, and stacking for desired power/energy output. Modeling of balance-of-plant (BOP) components like fuel processors, humidifiers and dehumidifiers, storage tanks, and other supporting assemblies will also be discussed.

Key points of this session:

• Fully functional stack
• BOP systems
• Hydrogen storage
• Operational considerations

In the hands-on exercise, we will model a fuel cell stack. The model will define the five functional layers of a cell and help us to find the performance curve of the stack. We will also explore different tests to analyze the performance, such as electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), cyclic voltammetry (CV), and determination of the polarization curve. We will also discuss ways to extend the study on a similar model.

Day 6

Q&A for Session 5

2–3 p.m. IST

Suggested Background

This training course is suitable for anyone with an engineering, physics, or science background. No previous experience with COMSOL Multiphysics^® is required.

Pricing & Payment Methods

The price for this online training course is INR 25,000 per person.

We offer an academic discount to those who qualify. For information about the academic rate, please contact dimple.joshi@comsol.com or call +91-9513655370.

We accept payment by NEFT, UPI, credit or debit card, company purchase order, or check. For security purposes, please do not send credit card information via email. You will be considered registered and your spot will be reserved once the full payment or purchase order is received.

Mail payments or purchase orders to:

COMSOL Multiphysics Pvt. Ltd. No. 46, 3rd Floor "Phoenix Pinnacle" Ulsoor Road, Bengaluru - 560042

Course Recording

This training course will be recorded, and the recording will be made available to all paid registrants for 14 days following the course.