In-Situ Measurement of cPOx Catalyst in Microtubular SOFC

Photoacoustic Spectroscopy (PAS) and Tuneable Diode Laser Spectroscopy (TDLS) are techniques that show promise for in-situ testing of gas compositions in Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (SOFC). Previous studies have used PAS to obtain kinetic data about catalytic reactions [1] [2]. PAS has advantages over conventional absorption based spectroscopic methods, as it does not rely on distinguishing the difference between incident and transmitted radiation. This results in a higher sensitivity. However, higher sensitivity comes at the cost of presenting a greater number of engineering hurdles.
Furthermore, miniaturisation of photoacoustic devices enhances performance, resulting in lower detection limits [3]. This unusual advantage is a result of the technique being dependent on temperature changes coupled to pressure changes; the smaller the sample cell, the stronger these two variables are related. However, miniaturisation along with hightemperature operation presents a unique set of engineering challenges. It is for this reason
that TDLS is considered as a less sensitive but less challenging device to engineer.
The aim of this work is to develop a gas characterisation device capable of operating within a microtubular fuel cell running on pre-reformed methane. The device will be located between the pre-reformer and the fuel cell (Figure 1) and deliver real time data referring to the performance of the reforming catalyst. This device will both aid catalyst development and act as a feedback mechanism to prevent cell failure from catalytic degradation. We present an introduction to the possible techniques that could be used for this application
and results which have led to the decision to take one technique forward.