Optimization of reforming catalyst distribution in a cross-flow molten carbonate fuel cell with direct internal reforming

Two optimization procedures of a molten carbonate fuel cell (MCFC) with direct internal reforming are presented. First, optimal operating conditions such as the amounts of feed gas, water, and air are calculated for a given cell current in order to obtain optimal electric efficiencies. An optimal current-voltage curve for the system is obtained by repeating this optimization for various cell currents. The second optimization balances the cooling effect of the endothermic reforming process and the heat-producing electrochemical reactions inside the cell in order to achieve a more homogeneous temperature profile. This is realized by optimization of the spatially distributed reforming catalyst density. A repeated calculation of the optimal current-voltage curve shows a significant increase of the electric efficiency by this measure. Both optimization procedures are based on a cross-flow MCFC model and consider several constraints concerning temperature, cell voltage, and carbonization.