Modelling of a Symmetric Molten Carbonate Fuel Cell Stack

The focus of this work is on the modelling of a Molten Carbonate Fuel Cell (MCFC) stack. In Part I, the main gas compartments of the fuel cell stack, especially the Indirect Internal Reforming units (IIR), are analysed in detail using a hierarchical modelling approach. The detailed model, the zone model and the phase model describe the Reforming unit on different length scales. The simulation results show a mass transport limited reforming reaction at the catalyst pellets in the IIR. In Part II of this work, the phase model of the IIR unit and the model of an MCFC are combined to the symmetric stack model. Using this model, a representative section of a molten carbonate fuel cell stack is simulated. The simulation results, especially the current density distribution and the temperature profile are discussed. Due to its generalised formulation, the model can easily be extended to different numbers of fuel cells in the stack symmetry unit. Thus, the model provides the foundation for an optimisation of design and operating parameters of MCFC systems with regard to homogenised temperature distributions and increased efficiency.