The Comparative Analysis of Ethanol Reforming Technologies Integrated with Solid Oxide Fuel Cell – Part II

The primary objective of this study is to compare the performance of different ethanol reforming systems: steam reforming, partial oxidation, and autothermal reforming. The investigation involves assessing and contrasting the efficiency of these distinct reforming processes when integrated with a solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC), with focus on optimizing the dynamic functionality of the system, specifically in terms of energy balance. This research builds upon previous paper research, introducing an aspect by including a comparison of a third reforming process, autothermal reforming. Utilizing Matlab, a comprehensive thermodynamic analysis of the system was executed. The simulation results underscore the viability of the examined systems, highlighting the critical role of operational parameters in the process. While the electrical efficiency of SOFC-SR, SOFC-POX, and SOFC-ATR is comparable, the thermal efficiency analysis accentuates that the SOFC-POX system demonstrates superior efficiency, particularly with an elevated O/E (Oxygen/Ethanol) ratio, leading to reduced SOFC temperature.