Center for Energy, University of Pittsburgh

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Modeling of Flat-Tube High Power Density Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (HPD SOFCs)

Laura Schaefer and Yixin Lu

Materials and Storage

Concept

Planar solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) result in shorter current-collection pathways, while tubular SOFCs are more durable and are suitable for hybrid power-generation applications. Combining the best attributes of both results in the flat-tube design, the performance of which must be quantified.

Application and Benefits

Flat-tube HPD SOFCs operate best in stacks.
Their geometry allows for tighter clustering than tubular SOFCs.
Their sealed construction make them suitable for high-pressure operation with a turbine-based bottoming cycle.

Technical Approach

Develop transport property relations.
Investigate electrochemical reactions under varying operating conditions.
Create an electrical circuit model.
Integrate all three models to gain insight into local and total cell behavior.

Collaborations

Research Team

Laura Schaefer
Yixin Lu

Contact

Laura Schaefer
Assistant Professor
University of Pittsburgh
Department of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science
412-624-9793