Mathematical Modeling of the Concentration Profile of Carbonate Ions in an Anion Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell

An anion exchange membrane fuel cell (alkaline membrane fuel cell) was operated after the absorption of carbon dioxide. The release of carbon dioxide from the anode, which is known as “self-purging”, was observed during cell operation. The content of carbonate ions in the electrolyte membrane after it reached a steady-state was assumed to be a function of the current density. A mathematical model was developed to explain the experimental results.