Nanocomposite Catalyst for High-Performance and Durable Intermediate-Temperature Methane-Fueled Metal-Supported Solid...

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Electrochemistry
• Catalysis

Background:

• Methane-fueled metal-supported solid oxide fuel cells (CH4-MS-SOFCs) offer a cost-effective and sustainable energy solution.
• Current CH4-MS-SOFCs face challenges with low power density and poor durability due to anode support limitations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To enhance the performance and durability of CH4-MS-SOFCs.
• To develop a highly active and coking-tolerant internal steam methane reforming catalyst.

Main Methods:

• Design and synthesis of a Sm-doped CeO2-supported Ni nanocomposite catalyst.
• Integration of the catalyst into CH4-MS-SOFCs for performance testing.
• Evaluation of power density, durability, and operating temperature.

Main Results:

• Optimized CH4-MS-SOFCs demonstrated significantly improved power densities and durability compared to pristine cells.
• The novel catalyst enabled a peak power density of >350 mW/cm² at 600 °C, exceeding previous zirconia-based CH4-MS-SOFCs.
• Stable operation exceeding 1000 hours was achieved.

Conclusions:

• The developed Sm-doped CeO2-supported Ni catalyst effectively addresses the limitations of traditional CH4-MS-SOFCs.
• This advancement allows for efficient and durable methane utilization in SOFCs at reduced operating temperatures.