Multi-Variable, Distributed, Real-Time Fiber-Optic Sensing System for Solid Oxide Fuel Cells

DOE is seeking measurement technologies of Sensors for Solid Oxide Fuel Cell (SOFC) applications. Two synergistic applications are targeted to realize low-cost electricity generation by natural gas- or coal-fueled SOFCs: (1) distributed generation, and (2) carbon capture and sequestration in power plants. The goal is to address SOFC’s technical and economic barriers to commercial viability, development, and deployment in support of Clean Coal and Carbon Management Research Program (CCCMRP). The focus is on research and implementation of multivariable sensors to monitor cells, stacks, or Balance of Plant (BOP) environments, affecting performance and levelized cost of electricity (LCOE). The multivariable measurands include: Temperature (T), Pressure (P), and Gas Chemistry (C). Simultaneous measurements of T/P/C is required to enable next-generation cell health and condition monitoring. IFOS’ Innovative Real-Time Fuel Cell Sensor System, FC*SenseTM is minimally-intrusive, EMI/RFI-immune, multiplexable, compact, and low-cost. It enables concurrent real-time measurements of T/P/C. The sensing medium is based on specialty ( 45,0000-hours). The IFOS technology is directly applicable to transport, industrial equipment, cooling, power, renewable energy, disaster relief, and applications where grid power is not available.