In addition to fuel utilization, the potential of a fuel cell can change by pressurizing the cathode or the anode. This problem will provide insight into the importance of these parameters on potential. The effect of the gas pressure on the maximum voltage of a SOFC at 800oC with hydrogen as fuel is given by the Nernst Equation.
a. Calculate E as a function of O2 pressure sent into the cathode (from 1 atm to 10 atm) for a fuel utilization of 80% and a constant anode pressure of 1.5 atm.
b. Calculate E as a function of H2 pressure sent into the anode (from 1 atm to 10 atm) for a fuel utilization of 80% and a constant cathode pressure of 1.5 atm.
c. Based upon these results, compare the effects of anode and cathode pressure on E.