The physico-chemical phenomena at work in low-temperature fuel cells (PEMFCs) and lithium-ion batteries are by nature multi-physics and multi-scale. Liten, a CEA Tech institute, created the MUSES numerical simulation platform to compensate for the lack of an overall model and be able to study fuel-cell and battery systems holistically and in detail. MUSES includes five development environments organized spatially, from the scale of the active material up to the scale of the system as a whole.

While the scales considered are different, the languages and databases used by the five environments share common roots. A homogeneous structure shared by all of the models makes it easier to integrate new data and update the models. This in turn facilitates IT development, the sharing of development tools, and cross-pollination.

The numerical simulation models, used in addition to lab testing, are a vital aid in gaining a deeper understanding of the phenomena at work with the ultimate goals of improving materials and designs. The models are used to estimate performance and predict system aging—information that can be used to lengthen product lifespans. Finally, the models can also be used to develop and validate dedicated energy management algorithms for increased efficiency.