Challenges in fabricating planar solid oxide fuel cells: A review

Most technologies for fabricating solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) are adopted from ceramic-fabrication methods. Selecting an appropriate method of preparing SOFC components is a main concern for many researchers because the method can strongly affect SOFC properties and performance. The method must be reproducible and highly controllable to improve SOFC performance and durability. SOFC fabrication methods have been customized to achieve high power outputs at low operation temperatures and thus broaden the choice of material and reduce fabrication cost. This article provides an overview of planar SOFC fabrication methods. Planar SOFC fabrication methods such as uniaxial pressing, tape casting, screen printing, dip coating, and slurry spin coating are discussed because these methods are cost effective. This article also discusses the technical parameters that can influence the processes of these methods and SOFC performance. The methods of preparing the materials of SOFC components are discussed because these methods directly affect the fabrication process.