Mathematical Modeling of a Solid Oxide Fuel Cell with Nearly Spherical-Shaped Electrode Particles

Abstract

A micro-scale model of a Solid Oxide Fuel Cell (SOFC) involving electrochemical reactions and mass transport behaviorsthroughout electrodes packed with nearly spherical-shaped particles was mathematically developed. The model was validated bycomparing the predicted results with already available experimental results. By minimizing the cell overpotential, the model providesthe optimal size of electrode particles corresponding to the specified porosities. The optimal volumetric ratio between ionic andelectronic conducting particles is also proposed. The study results substantiate the fact that SOFC overpotential could be effectivelydecreased by increasing the operating temperature as well as operating pressure. The present study reveals the working mechanismsof SOFC at the micro-scale level, while demonstrating the use of microstructure relations to enhance the SOFC performance.