An Optimized Polarization Model for Anode-Supported Solid Oxide Fuel Cells

A polarization model of an anode-supported Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (SOFCs) has been developed considering activation overpotential (Butler-Volmer equation), ohmic resistance, and concentration overpotential. In this work, the assembly of Ni-YSZ / YSZ / LSM-YSZ as an anode, electrolyte, and cathode, respectively, was considered. An optimization process was also performed in order to verify the accuracy of the polarization model. Three optimum outputs obtained were cell voltage of 0.57 V, current density of 5620 A/m2, and power density of 3205 W/m2. The model has been tested against another modeling approach and experimental data. It was found that the results of our model compare well with the outcomes of another model. The model validation using literature experimental data was also satisfactory and acceptable. Finally, a parametric analysis has been carried out to highlight a number of parameters, which are most relevant in the overall cell performance as measured by polarization curve. In particular, the following parameters were accounted for in this analytical study: exchange current densities in anode and cathode (j0a and j0c), leakage current density (jLeak), and temperature (T).