Abstract:
A fuel cell system (10), in particular for mobile applications, is disclosed. A fuel cell stack (24) is in fluid communication with a reformer (22). An air conditioning system (50) is in fluid communication with the reformer (22). During operation, the air conditioning system produces a condensate that is collected and directed to the reformer. The condensate may also be used for hydrating a proton exchange membrane in a PEM fuel cell. The water management of the fuel cell system is thus improved. Methods of making and using a fuel cell system (10) are also disclosed.