Tubular SOFCs operated with dimethyl ether

For developing small SOFC systems for portable applications, the characteristics of reforming DME by using carbon dioxide are investigated. After calculating composition of produced gas and condition of carbon deposition, relationship between the feed condition of DME and output power of a tubular SOFC is measured. A quadrupole mass spectrometer and a Fourier transform infrared spectrometer are used for measuring exhaust gas accurately. Carbon deposition conditions on the anodes of the cell and in fuel feed pipes are also investigated. From these results, potential of the carbon dioxide reforming of DME is clarified.