Ni infiltration as a possible solution to the redox problem of SOFC anodes

In the present paper the use of Ni infiltration into preformed porous yttria-stabilized zirconia structures is investigated as a possible solution to the redox problem of Ni-based solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) anodes and anode supports. It is shown that cermets containing 12-16 wt % Ni prepared by infiltration exhibited a conductivity above 300 S cm(-1) at room temperature, which dropped by 20% after one redox cycle, but was not accompanied by bulk dimensional changes. The dimensional stability is attributed to the properties of the microstructure that is produced by infiltration. (C) 2008 The Electrochemical Society.