About this Abstract |
| Meeting |
MS&T25: Materials Science & Technology
|
| Symposium
|
Engineering Ceramics: Microstructure-Property-Performance Relations and Applications
|
| Presentation Title |
Finite Element Modeling of Microwave-Assisted Calcination of SOEC Perovskite Precursor Powders |
| Author(s) |
Hongwei Liu, Ansan Pokharel, Logan Proud, Brandon Robinson, Jianli Hu, Katarzyna Sabolsky, Javier Mena, Tugrul Yumak, Ashley Daniszewski, Christina Wildfire, Edward Sabolsky, Terence Musho |
| On-Site Speaker (Planned) |
Hongwei Liu |
| Abstract Scope |
Solid-oxide electrolysis cells (SOECs) offer great potential for efficient hydrogen production but face challenges related to scalable manufacturing. Microwave-assisted calcination of precursor powders provides a promising route to address scalability limitations. Precise thermal control during calcination is essential for preserving phase purity in subsequent sintering steps. To enhance process control, a fully coupled electromagnetic-thermal finite element model was developed using COMSOL Multiphysics. The model accurately represents the experimental microwave furnace geometry, including a heterogeneous packed bed of solid precursor particles. Simulations employ a two-way coupling scheme, integrating temperature-dependent dielectric properties with transient heat transfer and radiative interactions at particle surfaces. Results highlight how particle size and dielectric constants significantly influence microwave energy absorption, causing preferential heating in larger particles with higher dielectric values. Due to low particle thermal conductivity, interparticle heat transfer occurs predominantly via radiative exchange, informing strategies for optimized cavity design and susceptor placement to improve calcination uniformity. |