A robust flat-chip solid oxide fuel cell coupled with catalytic partial oxidation of methane

This study demonstrates a module that consists of solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) with flat-chip configuration and a catalytic partial oxidation (CPOX) reformer. The CPOX reformer uses Rh supported by Al2O3 as catalyst and functions effectively. The optimized temperature of CPOX reformer is 800 °C and the optimal C/O ratio to operate the reformer is ca. 0.8 where the maximum reforming efficiency, i.e. 86.1% can be obtained. The CPOX reformer can be coupled with a flat-chip SOFC, which is advantageous for its good thermal shock resistance, quick startup and good response characteristics. The flat-chip SOFC is able to function with a temperature difference over 850 °C across the cell itself and can survive the harsh tests of rapid thermal cycling with the temperature change rate well above 200 °C·min−1, and repetitive redox cycling at least 23 times.