摘要 |
A fuel cell includes a first flow field plate for an anode side and a second flow field plate for a cathode side where each of the first flow field plates include channels configured to provide matching interdigitated flow fields. The fuel cell includes the first flow plate that receives fuel and a second flow plate arranged on an opposite side of the polymer electrolyte membrane for receiving an oxidant. Each fuel flow plate includes ribs that separate inlet channels from outlet channels. Inlet flow entering the inlet channel is directed over these ribs into an adjacent outlet channel. The outlet channel then provides for outlet flow of the fuel, oxidant and water. Because a solid plate polymer electrolyte fuel cell does not include flow field plates having a porous configuration, water management is difficult to balance and is accomplished through the polymer electrolyte membrane. The disclosed fuel flow plates are matched to define and manage water flow through the polymer electrolyte membrane of the fuel cell. |