Three-dimensional Modelling of a Microtubular SOFC: A Multiphysics Approach

Oujen Hodjati-Pugh, Aman Dhir, Robert Steinberger-Wilckens

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

Abstract

Microtubular Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (µ-SOFC) are suited to a broad spectrum of applications with power demands ranging from a few watts to several hundred watts. µ-SOFC’s possess inherently favourable characteristics over alternate configurations such as high thermo-mechanical stability, high volumetric power density and rapid start-up times. Computational modelling at the design level minimises cost and maximises productivity, giving critical insight into complex SOFC phenomena and their interrelationships. To date, models have been limited by oversimplified geometries, often failing to account for oxidant supply complexities, gas distribution within pores and radiative heating effects (1-3).

Here, a three-dimensional Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) model of electrodes, electrolyte, current collectors and furnace is considered using COMSOL Multiphysics. The distribution of temperature, current density, electrical potential, pressure and gas concentrations throughout the cell are simulated. Results show good correlation with experimental data and the model is reliable for prediction of fuel cell performance within set parameters.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationECS Meeting Abstracts:
Subtitle of host publicationSOFC-XV: 15th International Symposium on Solid Oxide Fuel Cells July 23, 2017 - July 28, 2017 Hollywood, FL
EditorsSubhash Singhal
Place of PublicationPennington
PublisherElectrochemical Society Inc.
Number of pages14
VolumeMA2017-03
Publication statusPublished - 23 Jul 2017
Event15th International Symposium on Solid Oxide Fuel Cells, SOFC, 2017 - Hollywood, FL, U.S.A., Hollywood, United States
Duration: 23 Jul 201728 Jul 2017
http://www.electrochem.org/sofc-xv

Conference

Conference15th International Symposium on Solid Oxide Fuel Cells, SOFC, 2017
Abbreviated titleSOFC XV
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityHollywood
Period23/07/1728/07/17
Internet address

Keywords

  • SOFC
  • Micro Tubes
  • Stack design
  • Interconnections
  • Modelling

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Energy Engineering and Power Technology
  • Renewable Energy, Sustainability and the Environment
  • Computational Mathematics

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Three-dimensional Modelling of a Microtubular SOFC: A Multiphysics Approach'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this