CFD Modeling Considering Different Kinetic Models for Internal Reforming Reactions in an Anode-Supported SOFC

Fuel cells are electrochemical devices that transform chemical energy into electricity. Solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) are particularly interesting because they can handle the reforming of hydrocarbon fuels directly within the cell. This is possible due to their high operating temperature. The purpose of this study is to develop an anode-supported SOFC model, to enhance the understanding of the internal reforming and effects on the transport processes. In this study, a CFD approach, based on the finite element method, is implemented for the analysis to unravel the interaction between internal reforming, momentum, heat and mass transport. The three different reaction rates applied in this study were developed and correlated through experimental studies found in the literature. An equilibrium equation is implemented for the reaction rate for the water-gas shift reaction. The pre-exponential values, in relation to the partial pressures and reaction order of the pressure are found to partly affect the reaction rate.