A transient analysis of three-dimensional heat and mass transfer in a molten carbonate fuel cell at start-up

In this paper, we investigate the time-dependent heat and mass transfer in a molten carbonate fuel cell at start-up. Thus, a three-dimensional, transient mathematical model is presented through a comprehensive inclusion of various physical, chemical and electrochemical processes that occur within the different components of molten carbonate fuel cells. The model is proposed as a predictive tool to provide a three-dimensional demonstration of variable variations at system start-up. The local distribution of field variables and quantities are showcased. It reveals that the electrochemical reaction rate is dominated by the over-potential, not by the reactants' molar fraction. Reversible heat generation and consumption mechanisms of the cathode and anode are dominant in the first 10 s while the heat conduction from the solid materials to the gas phase is negligible. Meanwhile, activation and ohmic heating have nearly the same impact within the anode and cathode. Based on these findings, the importance of heat conduction and its main features are finally assessed.