Multiphysical modelling of planar solid oxide fuel cell stack layers

• Published in: Journal of power sources 2020-03, Vol.451, p.227552, Article 227552
• Main Authors: Russner, N., Dierickx, S., Weber, A., Reimert, R., Ivers-Tiffée, E.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Cell designs; Heat and mass transport; Planar SOFC; Stack modelling; Temperature distribution
• ISSN: 0378-7753; 1873-2755
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jpowsour.2019.227552

Anode supported (ASC) and electrolyte supported cells (ESC) represent the most common cell concepts in solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) technology. In ASCs, mechanical manageability is provided by a porous nickel/yttria-stabilized zirconia (Ni/YSZ) substrate, whereas in ESCs a self-supporting dense YSZ electrolyte is applied. Naturally, the electrical loss contributions arising in ASCs and ESCs differ in quantity, leading to different temperature profiles within planar SOFC stacks. A two-dimensional, finite element method model was developed which considers the underlying chemical and physical processes, and calculates both the electrical performance and the thermal distribution of planar SOFC stack layers operated with reformate fuels. It was then validated by comparing simulation results with extensively measured (i) temperature profiles in SOFC stacks, (ii) gas composition changes along the fuel gas channel of planar ASCs, and (iii) current-voltage characteristics in a temperature range from 650 °C to 800 °C. The subsequent numerical study reveals (i) the different performances of ASC and ESC, (ii) the impact of operation conditions on performance and temperature profile and (iii) how the individual loss contributions generate temperature distributions in the stack layer. •SOFC modelling by well-defined and complete parameter data set.•Extensive model validation by temperature tracking and gas conversion measurements.•Detailed comparison of ASC and ESC cell design.•Precise quantification of heat sources during SOFC operation.