A review of modeling and simulation techniques across the length scales for the solid oxide fuel cell

Recent advances in computational techniques have allowed the application of computational tools to study heterogeneous functional materials (HeteroFoaMs) in the solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) from the quantum (sub-atomic) to atomistic to the continuum scales. However, knowledge gained from a particular computational technique can only provide insight at that specific scale. There has been a recent interest to develop a more cohesive effort so that results obtained from models across a particular spatial dimension can be used to extract additional insight across a larger range of length scales. This review article surveys recent progress in the modeling and simulation of SOFCs, and relates them to the relevant physical phenomena and length/time scales. We then proceed to review the various numerical techniques used, and their applicability across the length and time scales.

► Recent advances focused on quantum (sub-atomic) to atomistic to the continuum scales. ► There is recent interest to develop a cohesive effort across a larger range of length scales. ► This review article surveys recent progress in the multiscale modeling of SOFCs. ► Various numerical techniques used and their applicability is discussed. ► Results are related to the relevant physical phenomena and length scales.