Finite volume SOFC model for operation with coal-syngas fuel

The application of Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (SOFCs) in coalbased power plant would represent a turning point for the achievement of very high electric efficiencies and the reduction of pollutants emission of the electric sector. The correct prediction of SOFC behaviour is one of the main issues to be investigated for the definition of a reliable model of an integrated gasification fuel cell (IGFC) plant. This paper reports the results of a preliminary analysis of a finite volume model for the calculation of the performance of an Intermediate Temperature (800°C) planar solid oxide fuel cell fed with syngas from coal gasification. For given cell geometry and material properties, the electrochemical and thermal models relates the initial fuel and oxidant gas composition, flow rates, pressure and temperature to voltage, current density, internal temperature and composition profiles, fuel and air utilization and other relevant FC variables. The kinetic models of the reactions involved is considered for the calculation of electrochemical behaviour. A preliminary thermodynamic analysis is carried out to evaluate the risk of carbon deposition in presence of syngas with high carbon monoxide and methane content, according to Boudouard and methane cracking reactions.