Numerical and experimental analysis of the effects of tar components on single planar SOFC under high fuel utilization

One of the main challenges and obstacles for the application of SOFCs with wood gas is the degradation of Nickel anode caused by heavier hydrocarbons from the gasification process. The unclear conversion process on the anode and the fluctuant content of tars in wood gas will cause problems like the excess of critical fuel cell utilization and thus the oxidation of Nickel anode. This work focuses on the experimental and numerical analysis of tar conversion on the single SOFC under different conditions. A three-dimensional Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) model for an electrolyte-supported single cell was developed using the commercial CFD code FLUENT. The conversion kinetics of tar is validated by experimental results and implemented into the model. With this model, local distributions of Nernst voltage across the anode area are demonstrated. Areas, where an oxidation of Nickel is to be feared, are identified. Both experimental and simulative results have proved the positive effect of toluene reforming on preventing Ni from re-oxidation.

Automated summary

This study focuses on the experimental and numerical analysis of tar conversion on a single SOFC under different conditions. The conversion kinetics of tar is validated and implemented into a threedimensional Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) model. The model demonstrates the local distributions of Nernst voltage across the anode area and identifies areas where nickel oxidation is likely to occur. Both experimental and simulative results have confirmed the positive effect of toluene reforming on preventing nickel re-oxidation.