Overview of the NETL Onsite Fuel Cell R&D Program Page: 2 of 5
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of solid oxide fuel cells (SOFC) being pursued
in the SECA program. These highly
instrumented test stands (Figure 1) will be
able to accurately characterize the
performance and operation of single-cells and
small stacks, as well lend themselves to
developing a mechanistic understanding of the
technology. Larger test stands up to 10 kWe
are being planned to support the testing of fuel
cell prototype systems being developed by the
manufactures under the SECA program.
Other test and evaluation opportunities are
also being planned.
Figure 1: High-Temperature Test Stand
Integrated Fuel Processing
Over the past three years, NETL has been conducting a variety of activities focused on
integrated fuel processing for high-temperature fuel cells. Much of the work evolved
from NETL's long history in gasification and synthesis gas-related R&D. The primary
focus is to build a core competency for on-site research to support NETL's fuel cell-
related programs in addition to the gasification R&D. The following is a snapshot of
some of NETL's onsite fuel processing activities:
Facilities/Capabilities: OST is currently working to complete construction on it's Fuel
Processing Research Facility (FPRF). The FPRF (see Figure 2) is a multi-use platform
capable of converting a gaseous or liquid hydrocarbon fuel into a tailored synthesis gas. I
will produce up to 4000 scfh of gas at 900 C and 30 atm and is capable of supporting a
100 kWe fuel cell. The FPRP has multiple unit operations and can be used to evaluate a
variety of fuel processing technologies such as reforming catalysts, desulfurizers, and
separation membranes. A 3-yr CRADA was recently signed with UOP for the use and
test of an advanced hydrogen separation membrane for the FPRF. Along with a
complement of existing analytical equipment, OST is also completing a dedicated fuel
processing laboratory that will be capable of conducting the necessary catalyst and
sorbent R&D for liquid and gaseous hydrocarbon systems. This laboratory will allow
hopeful continued support from OTT and other external organizations. In addition to the
R&D facilities, OST is also planning to modify the FPRF (or add the SECA test stands)
to allow for testing of 5-kWe fuel processors evolving from the SECA program. Most
developers will independently test the fuel processor before coupling it to the fuel cell
stack. This will give NETL the ability to provide this independent service for one of the
most critical balance of plant items.
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Berry, David A. & Gemmen, Randall S. Overview of the NETL Onsite Fuel Cell R&D Program, article, November 6, 2001; United States. (https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc782593/m1/2/: accessed April 25, 2024), University of North Texas Libraries, UNT Digital Library, https://digital.library.unt.edu; crediting UNT Libraries Government Documents Department.