Conceptual design and technical analysis of a hybrid natural gas/molten carbonate fuel cell system for combined cooling, heating, and power applications

Abstract

Hydrogen can be extracted by various processes such as coal gasification, natural gas modification, and electrolysis. it can be used in fuel cell systems that have been used for energy generation. Fuel cell systems are several types including polymer membranes, sulfuric acid, solid oxide, methanol, alkali, and molten carbonate, which are mainly used in combination with other energy systems. In this research, methods of hydrogen production and types of fuel cells are reviewed. Then, an attempt was made by using a hybrid system connected to the molten carbonate fuel cell (MCFC) system which is capable of generating electricity and heating synchronously, to meet the welfare needs of a family in Bandar-e Deyr, such as heating, cooling, drinking water, hot water, and electricity. The MCFC produces 117 kW of required power in total. The cell can generate 12 kW power to supply the electricity required. Furthermore, this hybrid system can supply cooling and heating loads, which are 96 kW and 36 kW, respectively. the investment in the hybrid system is up to $1257,780, which can be reduced by economic analysis. Also, this system has the lowest amount of carbon dioxide emission, i.e. 4 %, and has the least amount of pollution.