A novel local performance measurement method of proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) was developed.With this method
current density and local temperature distribution of PEMFC can be assayed simultaneously without modifying the membrane electrode assembly (MEA) structure.Local temperature on back side of the anode flow field plate and cathode current density distribution was tested under nature convection cooling condition.The experiment results showed that
temperature difference in backside of the anode flow field plate was less than 1℃.Current density distribution was mainly affected by the liquid water distribution within the MEA
meanwhile
heat released from water vapor condensation caused local temperature elevation and uneven temperature distribution.