Electrode/matrix interfacial characteristics in a phosphoric acid fuel cell

Among the several types of fuel cells, the phosphoric acid fuel cell (PAFC) has been developed most widely due to its commercial viability. PAFC has problems regarding high cathodic overpotential resulting from the slow oxygen reduction rate and rapid degradation of cell performance after long operating times [1]. In this work three diAerent types of electrode/matrix interfaces in a PAFC, produced by the direct tape-casting of a matrix based on SiC whisker on an anode, a cathode, or both electrodes, were investigated with regard to their influence on electrical properties. A desirable form of the cell is discussed in conjunction with microstructural characteristics and impedance evaluation at the interface between the electrolyte and electrode.