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Optimization of Cathode Functional Layers of Solid Oxide Electrolysis Cells
Tengpeng Wang1, Tianpei Li1, Tao Wei1
1School of Material Science and Engineering, University of Jinan, Jinan 250022, P.R. China.
ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces
|August 19, 2020
Summary
Optimizing the cathode functional layer in solid oxide electrolysis cells enhances CO2 reduction. Key factors include porosity, NiO/YSZ ratio, and thickness for improved electrolysis performance.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Electrochemistry
- Chemical Engineering
Background:
- Sluggish CO2 reduction at the cathode limits solid oxide electrolysis cell (SOEC) performance.
- Systematic investigation of the cathode functional layer (CFL), the primary site for CO2 reduction, is lacking.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically investigate the impact of CFL properties on CO2 electrolysis performance.
- To optimize CFL characteristics for enhanced SOEC efficiency.
Main Methods:
- Utilized cathode supports with fast gas diffusion channels as a platform.
- Adjusted CFL porosity via pore former content.
- Reconstructed 3D microstructure using distance correlation functions to estimate three-phase boundary density.
- Investigated varying NiO/YSZ ratios and CFL thicknesses.
Main Results:
- Higher porosity improved electrolysis current density, limited by fabrication.
- An optimal NiO/YSZ weight ratio of 60:40 was identified, correlating with three-phase boundary density.
- Optimal CFL thickness of 35 μm maximized active sites before gas diffusion limitations occurred.
Conclusions:
- CFL properties significantly influence CO2 electrolysis performance in SOECs.
- Optimized CFL porosity, NiO/YSZ ratio (60:40), and thickness (35 μm) enhance electrolysis efficiency.
- Channeled cathode supports facilitate CFL optimization for improved CO2 electrolysis.
