A multi-scale modelling approach and experimental calibration applied to commercial SOFCs

The present study aims at laying the theoretical basis for a multiscale modelling approach applicable to state-of-the-art commercial SOFCs. The proposed multi-scale model is built with the main purpose to understand how micro-scale characteristics of the PEN structure and the thermo-chemical and electrochemical phenomena, which occur in the electrode and electrolyte assembly, may affect the overall performance of a complete cell and ultimately of the stack. This study presents the integration of two-dimensional finite volume models: a 1D micro-scale model and a 1D (or 2D) macroscale (channel/cell) model. The analysis evidences how stack optimisation should focus on the micro-structure characteristics, which should also change along the reactant channels (x direction) in relation to the local variation of temperature and composition. The model therefore lays the basis for cell local optimisation and design-led techniques required for performance enhancement.