Self-sustained Thermo-management of Solid Oxide Fuel Cells With High Temperature Phase Change Materials

This thesis work explores the integration of Phase Change Materials (PCMs) to main-tain the temperature stability of Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (SOFCs) in maritime appli- cations. SOFCs, known for their high efficiency and fuel flexibility, face challenges related to thermal management, especially under dynamic conditions such as load changes and shutdowns. The high operating temperatures, typically between 600°C and 1000°C, necessitate effective thermal management to prevent non-uniform ther- mal stresses and degradation of the cell components. The study investigates the use of metallic PCMs (mPCMs), which offer superior thermal conductivity compared to conventional PCMs like paraffin and hydrated salts. By incorporating mPCMs into the SOFC stack, it is possible to mitigate drastic temperature variations and enhance the preheating of fuel and air inlets. It as been developed a SOFC stack modeling which involves both electrochemical and thermal modeling to predict the performance of the fuel cell. These models account for steady-state and dynamic behaviors, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the SOFC’s operation under various conditions. Results show a significant reduction in temperature gradient during load variations. This thermal stability allows for the potential use of SOFCs in dynamic working conditions, making them a viable solution for reducing emissions in the maritime transport sector.