Mathematical modeling of transport phenomena in porous SOFC anodes

In the present study, a mathematical model describing the transport of multi-component species inside porous SOFC anodes is developed. The model considers the reaction zone layer as a distinct volume rather than a mere mathematical surface (boundary condition) as treated in the existing models. The reaction zone layer is a relatively thin layer in the vicinity of electrolyte where electrochemical H-2 oxidation takes place to produce electrons and water vapor. The model also incorporates the effect of Knudsen diffusion in the porous electrode and reaction zone layers. Simulations are performed using multi-component ethanol reformate fuel to predict the distribution of multi-component species in the electrode and reaction zone layers at different loads (current densities). In addition, the effect of shift reaction on the concentration overpotential is examined. Moreover, the effect of treating reaction zone layer as a discrete volume is investigated. (C) 2006 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.