Impact of syngas from biomass gasification on solid oxide fuel cells: A review study for the energy transition

Operating solid oxide fuel cells (SOFC) with gas from biomass gasification ensures a combined heat and power system with a less complex gas cleaning and an efficient use of biogenic resources. The main challenge and obstacle for the application of SOFCs with bio-syngas is the degradation of Nickel anode caused by carbon deposition, Nickel re-oxidation and contaminants such as tar and sulfur. Understanding the degradation mechanisms, identifying the optimal operation conditions and developing advanced SOFC materials, regeneration methods and diagnosis tools are essential for a stable, efficient and eco-friendly system. This work reviews the current development in terms of the deterioration of cell anodes, the underlying materials sciences, operation of coupled system, the economic feasibility and further approaches of efficiency elevation.