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Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells (PEMFCs) offer a sustainable solution for clean energy generation. This study investigates the effects of membrane surface patterning on PEMFC performance using a three-dimensional, steady-state, laminar, incompressible, two-phase model developed with the finite volume method. Computational simulations were employed to analyze how pattern geometry influences current density, power density, temperature distribution, and water retention. Patterned membranes increased the active surface area by 13.20%, resulting in a 6.16% enhancement in current density at 0.6 V and an increase in power density from 0.46 to 0.49 W/cm². Patterning led to more uniform temperature distribution and higher water content on the anode side due to enhanced capillary effects. Parametric studies on pattern width and height revealed that balanced configurations optimize performance: equal width-spacing ratios improved current density by 1.28%, while moderate increases in pattern height enhanced performance, with diminishing returns beyond 3 µm. These findings highlight membrane patterning as a practical strategy for improving PEMFC efficiency providing a foundation for future experimental and design advancements.

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