Proton exchange membrane fuel cells: Recent advances, modeling, and future trends

The study of proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) has received great attention from the scientific community. The main objectives of research in this area are to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, especially in the automotive industry, and develop new techniques and materials to increase the efficiency of PEMFCs at a reasonable cost. In this regard, the development of high-performance polymeric membranes is presented together with nanomaterials with high catalytic activity and stability that work at low and moderate temperatures. Similarly, the development of new techniques or materials for electrodes and catalysts that allow the development of new improved water management techniques within PEMFCs is studied. This chapter examines recent advances and future trends in the modeling of PEMFCs and their components. In addition, it discusses the main applications of PEMFCs and presents current and projected statistical data.