IntroductionWorld energy consumption is projected to grow by about 56% from 2010 to 2040 (from 524 quadrillion to 820 quadrillion British thermal units (Btu)) with consumption increases from all fuel sources (fossil, nuclear, and renewable) and fossil fuels expected to continue supply much of the energy used worldwide (almost 80%) [1]. As use of fossil fuels is projected to increase, world energyrelated CO 2 emissions will grow from 31 billion metric tons in 2010 to 45 billion metric tons in 2040, a 45% increase [1]. Thus, it is expected that future energy systems should be fuel-flexible (flexibility) (to facilitate integration with any type of energy sources) and environmentally compatible (compatibility) (to reduce CO 2 emissions). In addition, such systems should have the characteristics of capability (useful for different functions), adaptability (suitable for various applications and adaptable to local energy needs), and affordability (competitive in costs) (Figure 16.1). Reversible solid oxide fuel cells (RSOFCs), being developed for hydrogen/syngas production and power generation, potentially have all those desired characteristics and, therefore, can serve as a base technology for green, flexible, and cost-competitive future energy systems [2]. This chapter provides an overview of the RSOFC, discusses its hydrogen/syngas production and power generation operations, and reviews the status of the technology and its applications.
Reversible Solid Oxide Fuel Cell Overview
Operating PrinciplesA RSOFC is a device that can operate efficiently in both fuel cell mode for power generation and electrolysis mode for chemical production. Thus, in fuel cell