Fabrication of electrolyte-supported solid oxide fuel cells using a tape casting process

Abstract

The high energy density of hydrogen, in addition to its convenience for transportation and infinite resource base, make it a promising energy carrier. Solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs), in particular®which utilize the oxidation of hydrogen at high temperatures to generate electricity®have been studied widely because of their high efficiency and relatively low cost. However, the lack of a suitable mass production method currently precludes the commercialization of SOFCs. To address this, we herein evaluate tape-casting as a means to reduce the cost of SOFC mass production. A simple de-airing technique is used to simplify the production process and an electrolyte-supported SOFC is produced without employing a buffer or functional layers. The rheological properties of green tape slurries are explored to improve tape completeness and electrolyte performance. Electrolyte conductivity is measured for a fabricated half-cell; the fine structural details are analyzed via scanning electron microscopy. As a result, a unit cell with an open-circuit voltage of 1.05 V and an electric power density of 0.476 W cm12 at 800 °C was fabricated.