Monte-Carlo simulation and performance optimization for the cathode microstructure in a solid oxide fuel cell

A 3D micro-scale model is developed to simulate the transport and electrochemical reaction in a composite cathode. This model takes into account the details of the specific cathode microstructure such as random pore structure, active TPB (three phase boundary) site distribution, particle size and composition and their interrelationship to the charge transfer and mass transport processes. Especially, the pore structure and mass diffusion were incorporated into this model. Influence of the microsturcture parameters on the performance was investigated by numerical simulations.