Modeling solid oxide fuel cell operation: Approaches, techniques and results

In the present paper, a three-dimensional, time-dependent SOFC numerical model is defined, considering all the phenomena occurring in each component of the fuel cell. All the equations are written in a partial differential form, thus the model is independent from the cell geometry (planar, tubular, monolithic) and the modeling approach (i.e. time-dependent, 3D, 2D). The triple-phase-boundary (TPB) is modeled as a finite region, as well as a non-dimensional interface area. In the latter case the source terms of the energy, mass and electrical conservation equations are treated as a boundary conditions. Finally, a literature review is conducted. Some results from the models previously developed by the authors or found in the literature survey are presented. Each of them can be reviewed as a simplified version of the model presented in the present paper. The simplified assumptions and the related omissions that each of those approaches imply are also analyzed. (c) 2005 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.