Modeling of SOFC with indirect internal reforming operation: Comparison of conventional packed-bed and catalytic coated-wall internal reformer

Sensitivity analysis of three important parameters (i.e. flow direction, fuel inlet temperature and operating pressure) was then performed. IIR-SOFC with conventional counter-flow pattern (counter-flow of air and fuel streams through fuel cell) was compared to that with co-flow pattern. It was found that IIR-SOFC with co-flow pattern provides higher voltage and smoother temperature gradient along the system. Lowering the fuel inlet temperature results in smoother temperature profile at the entrance of the reformer, but leads to the increase in cell overpotentials and consequently reduces the cell voltage. Lastly, by increasing operating pressure, the system efficiency increases; in addition, the temperature dropping at the entrance of internal reformer is minimized.