Accurate predictions of H2O and CO2 co-electrolysis outlet compositions in operation

• Experimental validation of a 2D model for H2O and CO2 co-electrolysis in a SOC.
• Validation of a phenomenological macroscopic representation of the mechanism.
• Accurate predictions of outlet gas compositions.
• Sensitivity analysis of the impact of several relevant model parameters.
• The reverse water gas shift reaction is not preponderant over CO production.

This work highlights an experimental and modeling approach devoted to a better understanding of H2O and CO2 co-electrolysis mechanisms at 800 °C. A standard Cathode Supported Cell (CSC) was used in this study. Through numerical adjustments on experimental polarization curves, the cathode microstructural parameters and exchange current densities for H2O and CO2 reductions were determined and subsequently implemented in an in-house co-electrolysis model. Additionally, micro gas chromatography (μGC) analyses were performed in co-electrolysis operating mode for different cell polarizations (from i = 0 to i = −1.75 A cm−2). μGC analyses at Open Circuit Voltage (OCV) were used to validate the kinetic constants of the Water Gas Shift (WGS) reaction implemented in the model. Predictions of both co-electrolysis polarization curves and outlet gas compositions were then compared to the experimental measurements. The good agreement between simulated and experimental data proves the relevance of the macroscopic representation of electrochemical processes through a “surface ratio” that takes into account the H2O and CO2 electrolyzes competition. A sensitivity analysis was performed to ensure a better understanding of co-electrolysis mechanisms and further investigate the influence of the reverse WGS reaction over CO production.