Real-Time Optimization of a CO Preferential Oxidation Reactor Temperature with Extremum Seeking Control Techniques

Area of Science:

• Catalysis and Chemical Engineering
• Control Systems Engineering
• Renewable Energy Technologies

Background:

• Proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) are sensitive to carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning.
• Preferential oxidation (PROX) is crucial for removing CO from hydrogen fuel streams.
• Optimal PROX reaction temperature varies with operating conditions and catalyst deactivation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop advanced control strategies for maintaining optimal PROX reaction temperature.
• To ensure consistent CO concentration below 10 ppm in PEMFC fuel.
• To improve the efficiency and longevity of PEMFCs.

Main Methods:

• Proposed two modified extremum seeking control (ESC) methods.
• Implemented ESC for continuous tracking of optimal reaction temperature.
• Utilized secondary measurements to enhance ESC performance and mitigate modeling errors.

Main Results:

• Experimental validation of the proposed ESC methods.
• Demonstrated rapid tracking of optimal temperature compared to conventional approaches.
• Successfully maintained CO concentration below 10 ppm under dynamic conditions.

Conclusions:

• Modified ESC methods offer efficient and intuitive tuning for PROX temperature control.
• The proposed approach enhances PEMFC performance by ensuring low CO levels.
• Advanced control strategies are vital for robust fuel cell operation.