Numerical Simulation of Planar SOFC Single Cell Fueled by Hydrogen, Nitrogen and Water Vapor Considering Fuel Gas Leakage from Cell Side

In this study, the authors developed a simulation program for a planar solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) single cell with SSZ electrolyte fueled by hydrogen, nitrogen and water vapor. Firstly, polarization (i - V) curves were measured and compared with the corresponding numerical ones. As a result, a very good agreement between the measured and simulated values was observed. Next, simulations in case where a fuel gas leakage occurs in the SOFC were carried out. Based on the numerical findings, influence of the fuel gas leakage on cell performances was investigated. As a result, the fuel gas leakage affects fuel supply to each channel and provokes serious shortage of the fuel gas at downstream sides in both side channels where the crack is assumed for the fuel gas leakage. Thereby, each distribution in the SOFC is impacted and the single cell voltage is reduced.