Fabrication of electrolyte-supported solid oxide fuel cells using a tape casting process

Abstract

The high energy density of hydrogen, in addition to its convenience for transportation and infinite resource base, make it a promising energy carrier. Solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs), in particular—which utilize the oxidation of hydrogen at high temperatures to generate electricity—have been studied widely because of their high efficiency and relatively low cost. However, the lack of a suitable mass production method currently precludes the commercialization of SOFCs. To address this, we herein evaluate tape-casting as a means to reduce the cost of SOFC mass production. A simple de-airing technique is used to simplify the production process and an electrolyte-supported SOFC is produced without employing a buffer or functional layers. The rheological properties of green tape slurries are explored to improve tape completeness and electrolyte performance. Electrolyte conductivity is measured for a fabricated half-cell; the fine structural details are analyzed via scanning electron microscopy. As a result, a unit cell with an open-circuit voltage of 1.05 V and an electric power density of 0.476 W cm⁻² at 800 °C was fabricated.