Pore-scale investigation of methane steam transport in porous anodes of solid oxide fuel cells with varying structures

A pore-scale Lattice Boltzmann (LB) model has been developed to simulate multi-component mass transport in the porous anodes of solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) operating with methane steam. In this model, different porosities, carbon depositions, and gradients of anode microstructures are reconstructed through quartet structure generation set methods, and their impact on the local distribution of methane steam is thoroughly investigated both qualitatively and quantitatively. The relationship between anode microstructures and mass transfer has been clearly established. The results demonstrate that the localized porosity within the anode microstructure has a significant impact on mass transport. By modifying the anode structure into a gradient electrode, the transport effect can be effectively enhanced, and carbon deposition is slowed down. The LB model and the findings of this study are crucial for developing anode structures resistant to carbon deposition.