A thermally self-sustained micro solid-oxide fuel-cell stack with high power density

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Electrochemistry
• Energy Conversion

Background:

• Polymer-electrolyte direct-methanol fuel cells are explored for portable power but have limitations.
• Solid-oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) offer higher energy density but face thermal management challenges for small-scale applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a thermally self-sustaining micro-SOFC stack for portable power generation.
• To overcome the limitations of existing fuel cell technologies for portable applications.

Main Methods:

• Demonstration of a micro-SOFC stack operating in a single chamber configuration.
• Utilizing propane as fuel, enabling direct use of higher hydrocarbons.
• Achieving thermal self-sustainability through catalytic oxidation reactions.

Main Results:

• The micro-SOFC stack operates at 500-600 degrees C, maintaining thermal self-sustainability.
• Rapid start-up capability was achieved.
• A power output of approximately 350 mW at 1.0 V was obtained from a 1.42 cm2 cathode area.

Conclusions:

• The developed micro-SOFC stack offers a promising solution for high-power portable energy generation.
• This technology overcomes key challenges associated with SOFCs in portable applications, including thermal management and start-up time.