Modeling and analysis of direct internal reforming in ethanol-fueled SOFC

Solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs), in which the chemical energy of the fuel is directly converted to electrical energy, offer a compelling alternative to combustion-based power technologies due to their fuel flexibility, high efficiency, and low emissions, especially when coupled with combined heat and power (CHP) systems. SOFCs hold significant promise due to their potential to serve as distributed power sources and as reliable backup solutions during primary power disruptions. Among the various configurations of SOFC systems, those employing direct internal reforming stand out. This approach involves the in-situ conversion of hydrocarbon fuels like methane and diesel into hydrogen inside an SOFC device, which is subsequently electrochemically oxidized to generate power. This method offers distinct advantages over other configurations. In this study, a newly developed model is introduced that is specifically tailored for SOFCs with direct internal reforming of ethanol. By comparing the model's predictions with experimental data, its accuracy and reliability was validated. Additionally, a comprehensive analysis of polarization curves under varying operating conditions were conducted, examining factors such as hydrogen yield and species distribution along the channel length. This investigation enhanced our understanding of the internal reactions within SOFCs, providing valuable insights for optimizing their technology.