Three-dimensional lattice Boltzmann numerical study of carbon deposition and mass transfer in methane reforming solid oxide fuel cell anodes

A multi-component lattice Boltzmann (LB) model is developed in this study to investigate three-dimensional mass transport and flow behavior within the anodes of methane reforming solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs). The model accurately predicts the distributions of methane steam mass and velocity within different anode structures. Three-dimensional structures of SOFC anodes, varying in pore scales and carbon deposition structures, are reconstructed using an improved quartet structure generation set (QSGS) algorithm. This pore-scale model enables the quantitative prediction of methane steam distribution within porous anode microstructures without carbon deposition and facilitates the determination of the optimal anode structure. Furthermore, this model is used to study the characteristics of methane steam distribution within the anodes under carbon deposition. The results reveal that the optimal anode structure for enhanced mass transport within porous anodes includes (1) NiYSZ particles with a diameter of 0.9 mu m and (2) a porosity of 40 %. Additionally, a significant hindrance to mass transport within SOFC anodes due to carbon deposition is observed. The proposed LB model and the improved three-dimensional anode reconstruction algorithm facilitate an in-depth investigation of mass transport mechanisms within porous anodes and contribute to understanding the correlation between anode microstructure and carbon deposition. This understanding provides effective recommendations for further SOFC anode design and carbon removal strategies.