The
overall goal of Eco is to develop and validate highly efficient co-electrolysis
process for conversion of excess renewable electricity into distributable and
storable hydrocarbons via simultaneous electrolysis of steam and CO2
through SOEC (Solid Oxide Electrolysis Cells) thus moving the technology from technology readiness level (TRL) 3 to 5.
In relation to the work
program, ECo will specifically do the following:
Develop and
prove improved solid oxide cells (SOEC) based on novel cell structure including
electrode backbone structures and infiltration and design of electrolyte/electrode
interfaces to achieve high performances and high efficiencies at ~100 oC lower
operating temperatures than state-of-the-art in order to reduce thermally
activated degradation processes, to improve integration with hydrocarbon
production, and to reduce overall costs.
Investigate
durability under realistic co-electrolysis operating conditions that include
dynamic electricity input from fluctuating sources with the aim to achieve
degradation rates below 1%/1000 h at stack level under relevant operating conditions.
Design
a plant to integrate the co-electrolysis with fluctuating electricity input and
catalytic processes for hydrocarbon production, with special emphasis on
methanation (considering both external and internal) and perform selected
validation tests under the thus needed operating conditions.
Test
a co-electrolysis system under realistic conditions for final validation of the
obtained results at larger scale.
Demonstrate economic viability for overall process efficiencies
exceeding 60% using results obtained in the project for the case of storage
media such as methane and compare to traditional technologies with the aim to
identify critical performance parameters that have to be improved. Perform a
life cycle assessment with CO2 from different sources (cement industry or
biogas) and electricity from preferably renewable sources to prove the
recycling potential of the concept