Solid-oxide fuel cells (SOFC) have tremendous potential as power generators but are complex devices. In our research over the past few years, we have sought to better understand these devices such that they can be operated effectively with hydrocarbon and alcohol fuels rather than just hydrogen. One of the difficulties with reacting carbon containing fuels at high temperatures over most SOFC anode catalysts is the propensity for carbon formation. The design of the SOFC can be engineered to improve performance and reduce carbon formation. For example, replacing the Ni/YSZ conduction layer with a more carbon tolerant material has resulted in more stable SOFC operation with a dry methane feed. Promoters such as tin and copper can be added to Ni/YSZ to improve the carbon tolerance, but these promoters are not necessarily stable over time.

Improving carbon tolerance of solid-oxide fuel cells

243rd National Meeting (2012)

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