Reji Kumar Rajamony, Yasir Ali Bhutto, M. Hasanuzzaman, Jeyraj Selvaraj, Subbarama Kousik Suraparaju, A. G. N. Sofiah, K. Chopra, Arjun Singh K, S. Ramesh, N.A. Abu Osman, M. Samykano
Fuel cells, as high-efficiency electrochemical energy systems, hold immense potential for revolutionizing the clean energy landscape. However, their performance and durability are critically dependent on effective thermal management, as deviations from the optimal temperature range can significantly compromise efficiency and reliability. This review highlights the emerging role of advanced cooling strategies for fuel cell systems and address the limitations of conventional thermal management approaches. The novelty of this review lies in its comprehensive integration of innovative cooling techniques with advanced thermal energy storage materials including phase change materials (PCM), nanoparticle-enhanced phase change materials (NePCM) and nanofluids for fuel cell thermal regulation. The study systematically analyses the physicochemical mechanisms of heat generation in fuel cells, and critically reviews the recent advancements in nanomaterial-assisted cooling technologies. With the use of emerging materials in the fuel cell system, the temperature difference was observed the range between 2 - 11 °C In addition, the work evaluates the techno-economic and environmental benefits of PCM, NePCM, and nanofluid based cooling systems, particularly for fuel cells applications in electric vehicles. Furthermore, key heat transfer mechanisms governing temperature regulations are discussed, along with future research directions are proposed to optimize fuel cell cooling solutions. By emphasizing sustainable and efficient thermal management approaches, this review aligns with global environmental and sustainable development goals, contributing to improved fuel cell durability, enhanced energy efficiency, and reduced carbon emissions in next-generation electric vehicles.