Modeling solid oxide fuel cell operation: Approaches, techniques and results

In the present paper, a three-dimensional, time-dependent SOFC numerical model is defined, considering all the phenomena occurring in each component of the fuel cell. All the equations are written in a partial differential form, thus the model is independent from the cell geometry (planar, tubular, monolithic) and the modeling approach (i.e. time-dependent, 3D, 2D). The triple-phase-boundary (TPB) is modeled as a finite region, as well as a non-dimensional interface area. In the latter case the source terms of the energy, mass and electrical conservation equations are treated as a boundary conditions. Finally, a literature review is conducted. Some results from the models previously developed by the authors or found in the literature survey are presented. Each of them can be reviewed as a simplified version of the model presented in the present paper. The simplified assumptions and the related omissions that each of those approaches imply are also analyzed.