Macroscopically polar crystals of an organic zeolite, tris(o‐phenylenedioxy)cyclotriphosphazene, are obtained by partial guest exchange of included THF molecules with nonlinear optical molecules, which enter the channels via a mechanism of surface recognition (4‐amino‐4′‐nitrobiphenyl partially (left) and fully (right) stained crystals are shown in the Figure).

SOFC (solid oxide fuel cell) are known for a high electrical efficiency and especially the ESC (electrolyte supported cells) for a good robustness for system operation. Nevertheless common system concepts that use CPOX (catalytic partial oxidation) or SR (steam reforming) as fuel processing still show disadvantages. CPOX systems will not pass efficiencies beyond 35% and SR systems need additional water processing that increases complexity, as well as initial and operational costs. A technical solution for those disadvantages is a staged system design. staxera GmbH has developed a concept and EBZ GmbH has designed, built and operated a proof-of-concept installation including a serial connection of two SOFC stacks. This system design achieved an electrical efficiency of 55% due to a double use of fuel gas in stage two. In contrast to other highly efficient SOFC systems, mostly SR systems, no additional water supply and processing were needed.

The present paper describes the investigation of a 1 kWel Integrated Stack Module (ISM) operated with reformate from a steam reforming process. It could be shown that no performance losses occur compared to a synthetic CPOX mixture even when high rates of internal reforming were employed. High thermal gradients that are expected to be present at the location of reforming were not observed to affect either the performance or the mechanical stability of the stack. The stack was operated in counter-flow and co-flow arrangements without showing differences in the performance. Use of internal reforming significantly reduces the air flow required for cooling the stack, which decreases parasitic power losses. The high potential of the ISM stands out above all in part load, where fuel utilizations of more than 80 % could be achieved.

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