Temperature Gradient Analyses of a Tubular Solid Oxide Fuel Cell Fueled by Methanol

Abstract Thermal management in solid oxide fuel cells (SOFC) is a critical issue due to non-uniform electrochemical reactions and convective flows within the cells. Therefore, 2D mathematical model established herein investigate thermal responses of tubular methanol-fueled SOFC. Results show that unlike low-temperature condition 873 K, where peak temperature gradient occurs at cell center, it appears near inlet 1073 K because rapid rise induced by elevated current density. Despite large heat convection capacity, excessive air could not effectively eliminate harmful caused Thus, optimal control density properly selecting operating potential generate local neutral state. Interestingly, maximum axial be reduced about 18% 973 20% when with 5 higher supplied. Additionally, despite performance observed, counter-flow arrangement featured larger hot area gradients preferable for ceramic SOFC system considering durability. Overall, this study provide insightful information selection, structure design, stability assessment realistic SOFCs combined their internal reforming process.