Optimization of interconnect flow channels width in a planar solid oxide fuel cell

Finite element analysis is an effective method to investigate the uniformity of species distribution in solid oxide fuel cells. This paper presents a 3-D model with coupled mass transport, electron transfer and electrochemical reaction. Based on a working anode supported SOFC with gas channels and porous electrodes, the model is validated by measured I-V curves. The simulated results deviate no more than 3% from the measured data and indicate significant dependency of current density distribution on the gas composition distribution. Meanwhile, the simulated results also indicate that the ridges of the interconnect have negative effects on electrochemical reaction due to the limitation of mass transport. In further study, cases of various channel widths are calculated and analyzed, finding that the optimal width ratios for electrochemical in cathode and anode are 0.5. (C) 2018 Published by Elsevier Ltd on behalf of Hydrogen Energy Publications LLC.