Abstract
Applications for high-temperature electrochemical devices continue to broaden with the expansion of societal needs in efficient power generation and renewable-energy storage. For example, opportunities are emerging for high-efficiency electric power generation through hybridization of fuel cells with reciprocating engines. Electrochemical synthesis of fuels may serve as a means for renewable energy storage. This includes hydrogen generation through water electrolysis, CO2-to-fuels, and green ammonia synthesis. These diverse applications share a number of commonalities, one being the improved performance brought by pressurized operation of the electrochemical device. Such conditions approach and often exceed the operational limits of today's state-of-the-art electrochemical equipment, bringing questions regarding performance, dynamic response, and durability. In this presentation, we report on our efforts to explore these operational boundaries using 5-kWe solid-oxide fuel cell stack test modules provided by Ceres Power, Ltd. (Horsham, U.K.). The research is part of a federally funded, university-industrial R&D program to demonstrate an 100-kWe, 70%-efficiency electric generator, targeting markets in distributed generation. The high efficiency is achieved through a hybrid fuel-cell / engine power plant coupled with turbomachinery and power electronics. The unique hybridization strategy necessitates pressurized operation of the fuel cells; this boosts performance, but brings questions regarding durability and operational benefits. We are now using the pressurized stack test stand to explore these tradeoffs, and prepare for development of multi-stack modules. The data collected feeds computational models for stacks, systems, and operational control. The infrastructure provides a valuable resource for expanding the relevance and market potential of high-temperature electrochemical devices.
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