Kinetics and dynamic study of kerosene steam reforming for SOFC-GT hybrid systems

Steam reforming of kerosene (SRK) is crucial for the kerosene fueled solid oxide fuel cell-gas turbine (SOFC-GT) hybrid system. A dynamic simulation module provides more accurate predictions of component concentrations profiles compared with a steady-state module. The dynamic reactor simulation for SRK has not been reported due to the lack of kinetic parameters. Therefore, a 1D dynamic model for the SRK reactor is developed in this study, coupling reaction kinetics and heat transfer. First, the effects of key parameters, such as temperature, steam-to-carbon ratio, and liquid hourly space velocity were investigated on kerosene conversion and gas product distribution, and consequently, a reaction kinetic model using the least squares parameter estimation method is developed, achieving a fitting accuracy with ρ2 > 0.98. The simulated results obtained from RPlug reactor model, based on the kinetic parameters, show a relative error below 3.67 % compared to experimental data, while, the Gibbs reactor model, based on thermodynamic equilibrium, exhibit larger deviations. Moreover, the steady-state RPlug model is used to validate the component concentrations distribution from the 1D dynamic reformer model. The response time of outlet components molar fractions and temperature at different nodes of SRK reformer under variable flow and temperature of exhaust gas are performed in the context of the SOFC-GT hybrid system. The results indicate that the fluid flow rate is a key factor governing the response time to a steady state in the SRK reformer. The impact of GT exhaust gas temperature variations on the reforming performance and the safety and stability of SOFC power output was analyzed. The 1D SRK reformer can be used to study off-design conditions, transient operation and system integration, as well as to develop adequate energy management and control strategies.