Towards enhancement of carbon capture by Molten Carbonate Fuel Cell through controlled thermodiffusion

The following theoretical study explores the thermodiffusion of CO2 towards the electrolyte in the cathode gas duct of a molten carbonate fuel cell under the effect of an imposed temperature gradient. A simplified model of the diffusion process in the duct identifies the different dimensionless parameters that control the process. An analytical solution of the governing partial differential equation yields the parametric curves to capture the optimal region of operation. A preliminary investigation with different values used in commercial applications reveals that the concept might hold plenty of promise. This makes the molten carbonate fuel cell a potential candidate as an effective carbon capture device in gas fired power plants.