Power Generation from an Integrated Biofuel Reformer and Solid Oxide Fuel Cell

Alternative energy sources must be sought to meet the energy demands of our growing economy and to improve energy security while reducing environmental impacts. The conversion of bio-oil from non-food-based biomass to hydrogen for fuel cells would allow significant increases in the use of renewable feedstocks for energy production. This project will develop a non-food biomass-based power plant, in which the bio-oil is made from agricultural and forestry residuals (such as wood saw dust) through the fast pyrolysis process. In this approach, a proprietary steam reforming process and catalysts are combined with a solid oxide fuel cell for distributed power generation in the range from 3 to 30 kW. Commercial Applications and other Benefits as described by the awardee: The integrated power system that ultimately would be developed from this project would reduce the burden on the electrical distribution system through greater availability of localized power generation from renewable sources. By helping to replace petroleum-based fuels with renewable non-toxic biofuels, the nation can reduce its reliance on foreign sources of energy and also reduce adverse environmental impacts.