Performance and Stability of Plasma-Sprayed 10 x 10 cm2 Self-sealing Metal-Supported Solid Oxide Fuel Cells

This study adopts a novel structure design of large-area planar metal-supported solid oxide fuel cell (MS-SOFC), which exhibits the characteristics of self-sealing and high thermal cycling resistance. The self-sealing structure of MS-SOFCs is achieved by brazing technology. Plasma spraying is performed to prepare all functional layers of cells. The size of cells is 10 x 10 cm(2). The coefficients of thermal expansion of relevant parts (i.e., porous metal support, interconnector and compound structure of both) and the electrical conductivity of brazing solder were measured. The microstructure of brazing area was observed in situ at 800 degrees C for 500 h, and the distribution of fuel gas in the interconnector was simulated. The performance of cells was characterized and found that the maximum power density can reach up to 716 mW cm(-2) at 700 degrees C. Moreover, the long-term stability of the cell was investigated for about 500 h with 6 times of thermal cycling implemented during this period. The open circuit voltage and the maximum power density of the cell showed a good stability.

Automated summary

This study adopts a novel structure design of large-area planar metal-supported solid oxide fuel cell (MS-SOFC), which exhibits the characteristics of self-sealing and high thermal cycling resistance. Various techniques were used for preparation and characterization, showing good stability and performance of the cells.