Development of a 10/40kW-Class Reversible Solid Oxide Cell System at Forschungszentrum Jülich

Abstract

In 2018, a 5/15 kW reversible solid oxide cell system was developed and successfully operated. Based on these positive outcomes, a larger system in the power class of 10/40 kW was planned, with the well-established “Integrated Module” constituting a core element. This module consists of four 20-layer sub-stacks, two heat exchangers, and five heating plates. The basic structure was retained as per the previous system and the surrounding balance of plant components were adjusted in accordance with the higher power level. This adaptation is outlined using the example of an air heat exchanger. A possible efficiency optimization in electrolysis mode via a highly efficient steam generation process is also described and substantiated by experimental results.

Solid oxide electrolysis cells – current material development and industrial application

“…The reintegration of off-heat and off-gas on the fuel side increases the efficiency of the system. [26][27][28][29] On the air side, the off-gas is partly recirculated and cooled down with heat exchangers, thus making way for fresh air. The system surrounding the integrated module is permanently ventilated with fresh air to reduce safety risks, for example, the ignition limits of hydrogen.…”

Origin of Steam Contaminants and Degradation of Solid-Oxide Electrolysis Stacks

“…Solid-oxide electrolysis provides a promising approach for converting electrical work into chemical substances, because the technique is versatile as well as efficient. Recently, a 10/40 kW class reversible solid oxide cell system was demonstrated experimentally to achieve an electrical efficiency of 70% (LHV, DC) in electrolysis mode and further improvements can be expected [1]. Simultaneous co-electrolysis of steam and carbon dioxide enables the production of synthesis gas with a variety of compositions [2,3] and carbon dioxide electrolysis provides clean onsite carbon monoxide with high purity [4].…”

Origin of Steam Contaminants and Degradation of Solid-Oxide Electrolysis Stacks

“…Recently, a 10/40kW-Class reversible solid oxide cell system was demonstrated experimentally to achieve an electrical efficiency of 70% (LHV, DC) in electrolysis mode and further improvements can be expected. [1] Simultaneous co-electrolysis of steam and carbon dioxide enables the production of synthesis gas with a variety of compositions [2,3] and carbon dioxide electrolysis provides clean on-site carbon monoxide with high purity [4]. Both approaches can serve as the first step to utilize carbon dioxide to produce valuable chemicals and synthetic fuels.…”