Optimal energy management for an hybrid vehicle based on SOFC with anode gas recirculation and waste heat recovery system

The electrification of vehicles is a promising solution for reducing pollution in the automotive sector, but range limitations remain a challenge. This study explores an optimal energy management strategy for an electric vehicle and a range-extender system composed by a Solid Oxide Fuel Cell (SOFC) integrated with a waste heat recovery system and anode gas recirculation to enhance efficiency. The SOFC system is complemented by a waste heat recovery system to optimize energy utilization. By incorporating anode gas recirculation, unreacted hydrogen is reintroduced, improving overall efficiency at low hydrogen flow rates, despite dilution of the channel with water. Two energy management strategies are analyzed: one optimizing hydrogen usage by maximizing SOFC efficiency and another balancing SOFC and waste heat recovery power outputs. Two optimal control problems are formulated, aiming to minimize hydrogen consumption while maintaining system constraints. Simulation results demonstrate the potential of gas recirculation and optimal control strategies to significantly enhance system efficiency and vehicle range.