Modelling SOFC-GT hybrid systems with CO2 capture

Abstract

The goal of this study is to investigate the effect of C02-capture technologies in a hybrid solid oxide fuel cell gas turbine (SOFC-GT) system. Hybrid systems provide an opportunity for C02 capture with lower energy penalties to the system than current capture techniques used in industry. In this study, process simulation software is used to model the hybrid system. A zero-order fuel cell model is used to approximate SOFC performance in the system. A water-gas shift membrane reactor and a series of SOFC afterburners are modelled as capture techniques and integrated into the hybrid system. A set of metrics has been determined in order to evaluate the systems with C02-capture techniques as a whole and make recommendations for future power generation projects. The series of three SOFC afterburners is the best option modelled in terms of C02 capture, capture stream concentration and overall system efficiency.