Solid Oxide Fuel Cell System Utilizing Syngas from Coal Gasifiers

Integrated gasification fuel cell (IGFC) plants incorporating solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) are attractive alternatives to traditional pulverized coal-fired steam cycle and integrated gasification combined cycle power plants for centralized power generation. Key features of the IGFC power plants are high efficiency, near-zero emissions of SOx and NOx, low water consumption, and amenability to carbon dioxide (greenhouse gas) capture. Recent SOFC technology advancements and increased power density are indicative of the cost-competitiveness of IGFC systems relative to other power generation technologies utilizing coal. Commercially available coal gasification, syngas cleanup, and CO2 separation technologies have been evaluated for the IGFC application. Selected technologies and syngas processing subsystems have been applied developing a configuration for the multi-MW (∼400 MW) SOFC system. System analyses results including plant performance projections are also discussed. Development of SOFC-based IGFC technology will promote effective utilization of the nation's vast coal reserves while addressing greenhouse gas concerns.