LAUSR

Hydrocarbon fuel attracts attention due to its abundant source and low cost. However, carbon deposition damages solid oxide fuel cells (SOFC), especially intermediate-temperature solid oxide fuel cells (IT-SOFCs). We applied the external SOFC system, in which a steam methane-reforming reactor was connected before SOFCs. This work shows a simplified process in the steam methane reformer, where the methane and steam ratio was under control. The steam methane reformer was simulated by Aspen Plus to optimize the gas mixture for SOFCs. Detailed analyses show that carbon formation is related to different fuel compositions and operating conditions. Proper steam injection in feed effectively improves carbon formation—observed in the temperature-programmed oxidation method. Carbon morphology analyses provide a better understanding of carbon growth paths. The completed IT-SOFC assessment shows avoidance of carbon damage and indicates a potential integration in the development of SOFCs.