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Carbonate Fuel Cell Technology and Materials

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  31 January 2011

M. Farooque ,
C. Yuh  and
H.C. Maru
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Abstract

High-temperature carbonate fuel cells are recognized as the cleanest and most efficient power generation option for commercial and industrial customers. The firstgeneration carbonate fuel cell plants have shown an electrical efficiency of 45–48%.The electrolyte in this fuel cell is a mixture of alkali carbonates, and it operates at a highenough temperature that the heat by-product can be used for cogeneration applications such as district heating, hot water, process steam, and absorption chilling for air conditioning. Alternatively, the heat by-product can be used with an unfired gas turbine for additional electrical generation. Depending on location, application, and load size, carbonate fuel cells are expected to achieve an overall energy efficiency of 65–80% in cogeneration and combined cycle applications. The cell hardware uses commonly available stainless steels. Electrode materials are nickel-based. Furthermore, standard, well-established manufacturing processes are employed. Therefore, carbonate fuel cells are well positioned to be cost-competitive with alternative technologies. Significant progress has been made in the development, manufacturing, product engineering, and field operation of carbonate fuel cell technology. Megawatt and submegawatt units are operating worldwide. A comprehensive review of carbonate fuel cell technology and materials are presented in this article.

Keywords

carbonate fuel cellsdirect fuel cellshigh-temperature fuel cellsinternal reforming fuel cells
Type
Research Article
Information
MRS Bulletin , Volume 30 , Issue 8: Fuel Cells: The Next Evolution , August 2005 , pp. 602 - 606
Copyright
Copyright © Materials Research Society 2005

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References

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