Modeling of a System Comprising a Dielectric Barrier Discharge in a CH₄/Ar Mixture and a SOFC Fuel Cell

Abstract

The transition toward sustainable energy systems requires the development of efficient and environmentally friendly technologies for hydrogen production and utilization. Hydrogen, with its high energy density and clean electrochemical conversion into electricity in fuel cells, represents a promising energy carrier for future transportation, power generation, and industrial applications. However, conventional production methods remain energy-intensive and carbon-dependent, motivating the investigation of alternative approaches. Non-thermal plasmas, particularly dielectric barrier discharges (DBDs), offer a promising route for methane conversion and hydrogen production under near-ambient conditions without external heating. In this work, a comprehensive fluid-based plasma model was developed to investigate the behavior of an Ar/CH₄ dielectric barrier discharge. The model incorporates electron energy kinetics, detailed plasma chemistry, and self-consistent transport equations for charged species and electric fields. Parametric simulations were performed to analyze the influence of applied voltage, frequency, and gas composition on discharge dynamics, radical formation, methane conversion, and hydrogen yield. The results demonstrate that argon addition enhances plasma stability and electron density through metastable-assisted processes, improving hydrogen selectivity at intermediate mixing ratios. In a complementary investigation, hydrogen utilization was examined through a Multiphysics model of an anode-supported SOFC. The coupled analysis of mass transport, electrochemical reactions, and thermal effects provided insights into the influence of fuel composition, stoichiometric ratio, and operating temperature on electrochemical performance. The results highlight the sensitivity of cell efficiency and current distribution to hydrogen availability and operating conditions. Overall, this thesis presents two complementary modeling investigations addressing key stages of the hydrogen energy pathway: plasma-assisted production and electrochemical conversion. Although developed independently, these studies contribute to a broader understanding of hydrogen-based energy technologies and support the advancement of cleaner energy systems