R&D and Commercialization of Metal-Supported SOFC Personal Power Products at Point Source Power

Abstract

Point Source Power develops consumer products incorporating metal-supported SOFC technology licensed from Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory. The first product is the VOTO TM , designed to operate in wood- or charcoal-burning cookstoves prevalent throughout the developing world. The VOTO TM is fueled by biomass, and heated to 650-850°C operation temperature during cooking, producing a few watts of electricity. Metal-supported cell and stack technology are developed that enable operation in the uncontrolled cookstove environment. Particular challenges overcome include: rapid thermal cycling during cooking-fire light-off; maintaining optimum operating temperature; and, degradation of the cell by contaminants in the cookstove.