Progress report on the catalyst layers for hydrocarbon-fueled SOFCs

Solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) is an energy conversion device that can directly convert the chemical energy of carbonaceous fuels into electricity. Solving the problem of carbon deposition in the conventional nickel-based anode is essential to improving the performance of SOFC when operating on carbonaceous fuels. Although impressive progress has been made in the development of alternative anode materials, nickel-based anodes with superior catalytic activity for carbonaceous fuels are still the most promising anode for the commercialization of SOFCs. The deposition of a catalyst layer with high catalytic activity for carbonaceous fuels over the nickel-based anode has been demonstrated as an effective way to enhance the performance and long-term stability of hydrocarbon-based SOFC. This review introduces the working principles of the catalyst layers, discusses the recent progress of the catalyst layer materials for hydrocarbon-fueled SOFC and issues of the different catalyst layer materials. Finally, some of the future prospects and challenges of the catalyst layers are summarized in this review article. (c) 2021 Hydrogen Energy Publications LLC. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

Solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) is an energy conversion device that can directly convert the chemical energy of carbonaceous fuels into electricity. Addressing carbon deposition in traditional nickel-based anodes is crucial for improving SOFC performance. Although alternative anode materials have shown progress, nickel-based anodes remain the most promising for commercializing SOFC due to their superior catalytic activity for carbonaceous fuels.