MODELING OF A VARIABLE-FLOW METHANOL REFORMER FOR A POLYMER ELECTROLYTE FUEL-CELL

A methanol converter is the preferred hydrogen source for a polymer electrolyte fuel cell in transport applications. It offers easy fuel handling, low weight and high efficiency. Recently, a semi-empirical numerical model for the kinetics of the methanol reforming process has been presented and used to discuss the problem of GO-removal from the product gas. Here, it is shown how the calculations can be simplified by an analytical approach. The result is used to discuss the implications of variable fuel demand on the design and operation of the methanol converter.