Topology optimization method applied to solid oxide fuel cells design

• Grant number: 23/17518-4
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Post-Doctoral
• Start date: February 01, 2024
• End date: January 31, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Engineering - Mechanical Engineering
• Principal Investigator: Julio Romano Meneghini
• Grantee: Juliano Fagundes Gonçalves
• Host Institution: Escola Politécnica (EP). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Paulo , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 20/01177-5 - From fundamental to applied science: new frontiers in fuel cell technologies, AP.SPEC

Abstract

Energy sources are mostly dependent on fossil fuels, which have negative environmental effects. As a result, the use of alternative energy sources are becoming even more crucial. In this context, internal combustion engines and other conventional energy conversion technologies are being replaced by fuel cells. Fuel cells generate energy by electrochemical reactions which makes it considerably cleaner and more sustainable than traditional combustion-based technology. Ethanol is a viable option to be used in Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles given the Brazilian environment and the fact that solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) enable multiple types of fuels. Ethanol has a number of appealing qualities, including a high energy density, ease of storage and transportation, and the ability to be made from renewable biomass. Since the conventional ethanol steam reforming operation yields hydrogen, the SOFC may use it internally. In this context, the topology optimization of fuel cells, coupled with experimental validation and optimization is a powerful approach for innovation and scientific development, paving the way for practical devices and a deeper understanding of the physical phenomena underlying them. The research framework of this opportunity falls within RCGI projects with a focus on the development of fuel cells for vehicle applications. The primary goal of this research is to create enhanced methodologies for SOFC Topology Optimization, with the goal of creating stack layer and single cell component designs with increased performance and durability.

Scientific publications

(References retrieved automatically from Web of Science and SciELO through information on FAPESP grants and their corresponding numbers as mentioned in the publications by the authors)

GONCALVES, JULIANO F.; SA, LUIS F. N.; LOPES, THIAGO; MENEGHINI, JULIO R.; SILVA, EMILIO C. N.. Design of solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) channel layout using the topology optimization method with a design variable propagation approach. STRUCTURAL AND MULTIDISCIPLINARY OPTIMIZATION, v. 67, n. 12, p. 28-pg., 2024-12-01. (20/15230-5, 23/17518-4, 14/50279-4)