Innovative concepts for the coproduction of electricity and syngas with solid oxide fuel cells

Design of an SOFC for both high internal heat and high electrical power generation at reduced electrical efficiency results in a SOFCR, solid oxide fuel cell reformer. The high-temperature heat is used mainly for internal reforming of natural gas. This new combined production of electrical energy and hydrogen-rich syngas is much more efficient than separate production. The most important applications are the supply of the chemical industry with electricity and hydrogen, and the use for on-site power generation in conjunction with PEM fuel cells. The results of thermodynamic calculations, particularly in the range of low cell voltages, are confirmed by experimental studies and modeling calculations.