Molten carbonate fuel cells (MCFC): Structure and operation

Journal Article · Fri Mar 01 04:00:00 EST 1996 · Cogeneration and Competitive Power Journal

OSTI ID:201359

The main components of an individual cell are the anode, the cathode, and the molten carbonate electrolyte. Electrode materials are usually porous nickel alloys for reducing atmospheres (anode) and nickel oxide for oxidizing atmospheres (cathode). The electrolyte, typically a combination of molten, alkali (Li, K, Na) carbonates, is contained within a porous ceramic matrix, commonly made of lithium aluminate (LiAlO{sub 2}). The molten carbonate electrolyte, sandwiched between the anode and cathode, partially fills these porous electrodes. Electrochemical reactions take place at a three-phase interface formed by the electrolyte, the electrodes, and the gas streams. Carbonate ions are formed at an oxidant/electrolyte interface in the cathode and are transported through the electrolyte to a fuel/electrolyte interface in the anode. There, the carbonate ions react with the fuel, releasing electrons into the anode. The electrons then travel through an external circuit and through the load, suffering a voltage drop. Finally, the circuit is completed as the electrons return to the cathode. The paper gives data on MCFC efficiency and NO{sub x} emissions compared with engines and turbines.

• OSTI ID: 201359
• Journal Information: Cogeneration and Competitive Power Journal, Journal Name: Cogeneration and Competitive Power Journal Journal Issue: 1 Vol. 11; ISSN CCPJE8; ISSN 1066-8683
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

30 DIRECT ENERGY CONVERSION
AIR POLLUTION ABATEMENT
ALUMINATES
COMBINED CYCLES
COMBUSTION
DESIGN
ENERGY EFFICIENCY
GAS TURBINES
LITHIUM CARBONATES
LITHIUM COMPOUNDS
MOLTEN CARBONATE FUEL CELLS
NITROGEN OXIDES
OPERATION
POTASSIUM CARBONATES
SODIUM CARBONATES
SYNTHESIS GAS