Solid Oxide Fuel Cell Based Upon Colloidal Deposition of Thin Films for Lower Temperature Operation (Preprint)

Abstract : In order to reduce the operating temperature of solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs), anode-supported cells incorporating thin film electrolytes in conjunction with anode/electrolyte and cathode/electrolyte interlayers were studied. SOFC button cells were prepared through deposition of colloidal slurries onto anode supported substrates and were analyzed as a junction of temperature and polarization via Voltammetry and Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS). Single SOFC button cells with electrode interlayers were then characterized as a junction of temperature and polarization to assess the involvement of these interfacial layers. EIS was applied and the data were used to deconvolute component impedances. Finally, electrochemical models were developed to provide a more complete understanding of these assemblies under operation.