Numerically Modeling of Anode Supported Tubular SOFC

Numerical models of Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (SOFCs) are important tools in understanding and investigate the effect of design and operation parameters of the SOFC performance and SOFC development works. In this study, one of the clean and highly efficient energy production systems, single tubular anode-supported SOFC is modeled numerically. Mathematical model of the single tubular SOFC is given in terms of the incompressible Navier- Stokes, Knudsen diffusion models, Butler–Volmer kinetic equations and Brinkman equations. For two-dimensional axisymmetric geometry, operating conditions, parameters of fuel cell and governing equations are solved by finite element method software ComsolMultiphysics. Pure H2 89% and H2O 11% are used at anode and air is used at the cathode side as reactant gasses. Temperature, pressure, porosity, permeability and especially distance of current collectors to the cell reactant gas inlet are studied. Optimal cell parameters for this model are determined and reasons of cell performance effects are explained.