SOFC anode process characterization by means of a spot-sampling set-up for in-operando gas analysis

An innovative experimental setup is presented for in-depth, in-operando characterization of anode processes of Solid Oxide Fuel Cells. The idea behind this study is to realize a setup able to measure temperatures and gas compositions using eleven points of sampling distributed over the anode surface. In this way, it is possible to investigate the evolution of chemical reactions occurring during the operation of the cell. The experimental tests have been carried out feeding the single cell with dry hydrogen for a detailed spatial mapping of thermochemical response correlated with operating conditions. Experimental data will be useful to investigate phenomena occurring on the cell plane also with the help of a model based on finite element method that can simulate locally the behavior of the cell in order to validate the experimental map of temperature and composition of gases on the cell. © The Electrochemical Society.