Integration of direct carbon fuel cells with concentrated solar power

In this paper, we will report on a study on the thermodynamic feasibility of a concept that realizes the cracking of methane with a concentrated solar power (CSP) reactor and electricity production with a direct carbon fuel cell (DCFC) and its possible contribution to a clean energy supply for Europe in the long-term future. The natural gas (methane) is decomposed in an endothermic reaction into hydrogen and carbon. The separated carbon is fed to a direct carbon fuel cell (DCFC) and converted with high efficiency to electric power. A model of the proposed concept is carried out in the flow sheet program Cycle-Tempo and the results of the simulations and the corresponding analysis are presented in this paper. Finally the location factors influencing the implementation of this concept in the north of Africa are evaluated.

► By combining thermal decomposition of methane in a concentrated solar power (CSP) plant with a direct carbon fuel cell (DCFC) a Multi-Source Multi-Product (MSMP) energy system for the coproduction of hydrogen and power can be constructed. ► The system integrates renewable energy with fossil energy in one system. The chemical energy in methane is as it were upgraded by solar energy into a higher chemical energy in the products carbon and hydrogen. ► The energy in the hydrogen has two origins solar and fossil and is to be used in ‘a hydrogen economy’ well known to the readers. ► The carbon is converted at 80% efficiency into electric power in a DCFC. ► Even with the low efficiency of present lab scale solar reactors for methane decomposition the output of the total concept is comparable in output with a steam cycle CSP.