High‐Resolution Computed Tomography for Flaw Detection in Advanced Thin‐Layer Ceramics for Fuel Cells

Advanced monolithic solid oxide fuel cells are being assembled from thin (approx.50 ..mu..m) tape-cast ceramic layers with highly tailored mechanical properties. The layers need to be free of cracks and nonbonds. A high-resolution computed tomography system with a /sup 192/Ir source was investigated as a tool for detecting cracks and nonbonds. Results suggest that channel sizes, including internal channels, can be dimensional but that small in-plane cracks cannot be detected.