Experimental and numerical studies on chemically reacting gas flow in the porous structure of a solid oxide fuel cells internal fuel reformer

This paper presents experimental and numerical studies on the fuel reforming process on an Ni/YSZ catalyst. Nickel is widely known as a catalyst material for Solid Oxide Fuel Cells. Because of its prices and catalytic properties, Ni is used in both electrodes and internal reforming reactors. To optimize the reforming reactors, detailed data about the entire reforming process is required. In the present paper kinetics of methane/steam reforming on the Ni/YSZ catalyst was experimentally investigated. Measurements including different thermal boundary conditions, the fuel flow rate and the steam-to-methane ratios were performed. The reforming rate equation derived from experimental data was used in the numerical model to predict synthetic gas composition at the outlet of the reformer.

Graphical abstractFigure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► Experimental setup was build up to derive methane/steam reforming kinetics. ► The reforming rate equation was used in mathematical model. ► 3D model of indirect internal steam reformer has been developed. ► Good agreement between experiment and simulation has been found.