Computational modeling studies on microfluidic fuel cell: A prospective review

Microfluidic fuel cell (MFC) is a burgeoning category of micro fuel cell technology based on laminar flow electrolytes. The merits of MFC, such as the absence of membrane electrolyte, flexible reactants selection, and high electrolyte conductivity, have been attracting researchers to explore this frontier area over the past two decades. However, realizing practical applications of MFCs remains a tremendous challenge. Many research works have been done to expedite research progress and obtain results reflecting inner mechanism via computational modeling and simulation, the general procedure of which is introduced in this paper. These studies primarily investigate the effects of various geometrical and operational parameters on diverse cell performance metrics, such as open-circuit voltage, current and power densities, and fuel utilization efficiency. However, contradictory outcomes and conclusions may arise due to disparities in the structural and parametric characteristics among different MFC models. In this regard, this review comprehensively summarizes prior computational modeling studies on MFC technology, with specific emphasis on different cell components including microchannels, inlets and outlets, electrodes, etc., as well as effects of different operational conditions encompassing electrolyte input, cell vibration, gas bubbling, and gravity. In addition, other related studies involving paper-based MFCs, cell stacking, and twin models are also introduced. Lastly, the future research perspective on MFC computational modeling is proposed, including potential structural innovations and modeling methods. This review paper shows the big puzzle of MFC modeling, the missing part of which is worthy of further study in the future.