Entropy generation analysis in a monolithic-type solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC)

The aim of the paper is to investigate possible improvements in the geometry design of a monolithic solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) through analysis of the entropy generation terms. The different contributions to the local rate of entropy generation are calculated using a computational fluid dynamic (CFD) model of the fuel cell, accounting for energy transfer, fluid dynamics, current transfer, chemical reactions and electrochemistry. The fuel cell geometry is then modified to reduce the main sources of irreversibility and increase its efficiency. (C) 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.