Sensitivity analysis of the uncertainties of the mechanical design parameters: Stochastic study performed via a numerical design of experiment

As the GDL (Gas diffusion layer) is the most sensitive component in the fuel cell, any change in its structure causes a change in its porosity, which strongly influences the contact between the components of the fuel cell. Note that the state of contact depends on the applied clamping pressure, the thickness and the porosity of the GDL, and the geometry of the rib (bending radius) of the BPP (Bipolar plates). These components can be subject to variations coming from very high compression, so it is necessary to consider the reliability of their dimension via modeling/simulation by the integration of uncertainties. In this article, we will study the influence on the contact pressure of the uncertainties of the mechanical design parameters. A probabilistic approach (Gauss's law) is applied to evaluate the effect of the mechanical uncertainties parameter on the contact pressure between GDL/MEA and GDL/BPP.