While significant progress has been made thus far in developing fuel cell-based auxiliary power units with diesel and kerosene reforming, several key challenges remain in optimizing system performance. This study specifically addressed issues regarding shutdown behavior of the water-gas shift reactor, a critical component of the system designed to reduce carbon monoxide levels upstream of the fuel cell. In order to develop a protocol to maximize stable carbon monoxide conversion levels, this work investigated the performance of a commercial water-gas shift catalyst, with focus on the effect of two main parameters: inlet gas stream composition during operation and purge atmosphere during shutdown. The results revealed that the presence of higher hydrocarbons in the inlet gas decreased the selectivity of the catalyst but did not negatively influence activity and stability during operation or shutdown. Additionally, performing an air purge during shutdown consistently improved catalyst performance. These results will help guide future optimization efforts, contributing to the overall improvement of the fuel cell system.

Experimental studies of shutdown procedures for water-gas shift catalysts in high temperature polymer electrolyte fuel cell systems

249th National Meeting (2015)

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