Evolution of SOFCpower’ Stack Performances

Abstract

An optimized stack design was developed by SOFCpower-HTceramix group since 2011 and validated in the pilot production level in early 2013, to be integrated into the HoTbox™ module which includes all other hot components, a compact and thermally efficient solution, mainly but not exclusively for µCHP applications. The proprietary planar stack has been tested under severe conditions, with several H2/N2 mixtures and several type of reformate for both natural gas and biogas, allowing high fuel utilization for high electrical efficiency, up to 70% under steam reforming of natural gas at 750°C and S/C ratio of 2, whit realistic current density (j>0,3 A/cm2) and single-pass configuration. The optimized stack demonstrated also very good robustness, surviving to more than 50 full thermal cycles from operation to ambient temperature, without significant degradation.