Demonstration of SOFC Operation on JP-8 Reformate Produced by a Cold Plasma Process

Ceramatec Inc. and World Energy Systems Corporation (WESCO) successfully demonstrated SOFC stack operation with JP-8 reformate produced using a soot free cold plasma process. The patented SynGen cold plasma reformer which operates on the GlidArc plasma physics principle was developed by WESCO of Conroe Texas. This reformer has shown the ability to reform JP-8 and diesel fuel using an electric power input corresponding to only 1.2% of the heating value of the fuel. The Phase II program will implement a thermal, process, and physical integration of the reformer and SOFC system balance of plant. Integration of the SOFC and reformer will develop greater system efficiency and reliability, as well as a more compact design. The overall efficiency of the resulting system will match the high efficiency values currently achievable only with integrated catalytic steam reformers - which are not liquid fuel capable.