A mathematical model to analyze solid oxide electrolyzer cells (SOECs) for hydrogen production

In this analysis, we report an in-house model to describe the complex fundamental and functional interactions between various internal physico-chemical phenomena of a SOEC. Electrochemistry at the three-phase boundary is modeled using a modified Butler-Volmer approach that considers H-2 as the electrochemically active species. Also, a multi step elementary heterogeneous reaction mechanism for the thermo-catalytic H-2 electrode chemistry, dusty-gas model to account for multi component diffusion through porous media, and plug flow model for flow through the channels are used. Results pertaining to detailed chemical processes within the cathode, electrochemical behavior and irreversible losses during SOEC operation are demonstrated. Furthermore, efficiency analysis is performed and limiting current behavior of the SOEC system is investigated. (C) 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved