A low-operating-temperature solid oxide fuel cell in hydrocarbon-Air mixtures

Area of Science:

• Electrochemistry
• Materials Science
• Energy Conversion

Background:

• Solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) offer efficient energy conversion.
• Lower operating temperatures for SOFCs are desirable for broader applications.
• Ceria-based electrolytes show promise for intermediate-temperature SOFCs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the performance of a single-chamber SOFC with a ceria-based solid electrolyte.
• To investigate the cell's behavior at temperatures below 773 kelvin.
• To determine the power generation capabilities and internal resistances.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication and testing of a single-chamber solid oxide fuel cell.
• Utilizing a ceria-based solid electrolyte.
• Operating the cell with ethane or propane and air mixtures below 773 K.

Main Results:

• The cell generated electromotive forces of approximately 900 millivolts.
• The ceria-based electrolyte exhibited purely ionic conductivity.
• Electrode-reaction resistance was found to be negligible.
• Peak power densities of 403 mW/cm² at 773 K and 101 mW/cm² at 623 K were achieved.

Conclusions:

• Ceria-based solid electrolytes are effective for single-chamber SOFCs at intermediate temperatures.
• The cell design minimizes internal resistances, leading to high power output.
• This technology holds potential for efficient, lower-temperature fuel cell applications.