Direct Alcohol-Fueled Low-Temperature Solid Oxide Fuel Cells: A Review

Low-temperature solid oxide fuel cells (LT-SOFCs, operating temperature <= 600 degrees C) are advantageous in potential applicability, affordability, and durability compared to conventional SOFCs (operating temperature: 800-1000 degrees C). Direct operation of LT-SOFCs on liquid alcohol fuels can further improve their portability as well as accessibility to the fuel. In this review, we overview the results of LT-SOFCs directly fueled by liquid alcohols that operate at 600 degrees C and below. Fundamentals regarding operation principles, losses, as well as reactions associated with liquid alcohol-fueled LT-SOFCs are presented. The materials, structures, and fabrication processes of cell components, namely anode, electrolyte, and cathode, are mainly reviewed. The electrochemical performances of alcohol-fueled LT-SOFCs are also summarized and compared with those of H-2-fueled LT-SOFCs.