... are introduced into the unit cell during operation. In addition, the non-uniform current and reactant flow distributions in the cell result in non-uniform temperature and moisture content of the ... materials with non-uniform temperature distributions in the cell during operation, hygro-thermal stresses and deformation are introduced. The non-uniform distribution of stress, caused by the temperature ... dehumidification of the membrane may occur, resulting in deterioration of protonic conductivity, increasing resistive losses, and increasing MEA temperature. In the extreme case of complete drying,...