Operation of solid oxide fuel cell stack in reversible mode for hydrogen generation for molten carbonate fuel cell as power-to-gas process

• SOFC stacks tested in reversible mode for hydrogen production and power generation in a power-to-gas system. • Key challenges include thermal management, stability, and preventing leaks, especially in electrolysis mode. • Testing confirmed SOFC feasibility with a 300-hour experiment, showing high efficiency in both modes. • Thermal management was optimized using a ten-phase start-up, ensuring stable operation. • Integration with MCFCs improved efficiency, enhancing CO2 capture and resource utilization. This paper investigates the operation of Solid Oxide Fuel Cell (SOFC) stacks in reversible mode for hydrogen production, which are then utilized within a Molten Carbonate Fuel Cell (MCFC) system as part of a power-to-gas process. Focusing on dual-functional use, the study explores both the electrolysis mode for hydrogen generation and fuel cell mode for electricity production. Key insights into the technical challenges, such as thermal management, operational stability, and system efficiency, are discussed in detail. The results highlight the feasibility of utilizing SOFC stacks in reversible modes, thereby enhancing the energy storage capabilities and overall efficiency of the power-to-gas systems. This research contributes to the development of advanced energy solutions that leverage reversible fuel cells to meet fluctuating energy demands effectively while supporting the integration of renewable energy sources. The study also identifies future research directions for power-to-gas processes and e-fuels synthesis, showing technological potential and benefits in those applications to advance the commercial viability of this technology.