Abstract: In one embodiment, the present invention relates generally to a method for replacing at least one direct carbon fuel cell (DCFC) tube of a plurality of DCFC tubes in a fuel cell on-line. In one embodiment, the method includes detecting a degradation in performance of the at least one DCFC tube, removing the at least one DCFC tube while the fuel cell is still operating and providing a replacement DCFC tube while the fuel cell is still operating.

Abstract: An electrochemical cell is provided which has a liquid anode. Preferably the liquid anode comprises molten salt and a fuel, which preferably has a significant elemental carbon content. The supply of fuel is preferably continuously replenished in the anode. Where the fuel contains or pyrolizes to elemental carbon, the reaction C+2O2??CO2+4e? may occur at the anode. The electrochemical cell preferably has a solid electrolyte, which may be yttrium stabilized zirconia (YSZ). The electrolyte is connected to a solid or liquid cathode, which is given a supply of an oxidizer such as air. An ion such as O2? passes through the electrolyte. If O2? passes through the electrolyte from the anode to the cathode, a possible reaction at the cathode may be O2+4e??2O2?. The electrochemical cell of the invention is preferably operated as a fuel cell, consuming fuel and producing electrical current.

Abstract: An electrochemical cell is provided which has a liquid anode. Preferably the liquid anode comprises molten salt and a fuel, which preferably has a significant elemental carbon content. The supply of fuel is preferably continuously replenished in the anode. Where the fuel contains or pyrolizes to elemental carbon, the reaction C+2O2??CO2+4e? may occur at the anode. The electrochemical cell preferably has a solid electrolyte, which may be yttrium stabilized zirconia (YSZ). The electrolyte is connected to a solid or liquid cathode, which is given a supply of an oxidizer such as air. An ion such as O2? passes through the electrolyte. If O2? passes through the electrolyte from the anode to the cathode, a possible reaction at the cathode may be O2+4e??2O2?. The electrochemical cell of the invention is preferably operated as a fuel cell, consuming fuel and producing electrical current.