Solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) typically operate at high temperature (T > 800�C) due to the thermodynamic nature of hopping oxygen ion transport. In order to overcome this barrier, we have explored the limits of electrolyte thickness reduction by fabricating self-supported Y-doped ZrO2 thin films with nanoscale dimensions. To increase the isothermal ionic conductivity, we have engineered oxide alloys and compositionally graded materials that are robust in suspended form. The former was created at temperatures far below those necessary using traditional solid state sintering temperatures, while the latter demonstrates the novel processing schemes possible when utilizing thin film fabrication. Complexity in the creation and stability of electrode morphology plays a vital role in the overall performance of these thin film SOFCs. We have used Pt as an ideal electrocatalyst and successfully demonstrated power densities of over 1 W/cm2 at temperatures around 500�C utilizing H2 and air as the fuel and oxidant, respectively. Further, we have investigated the feasibility of utilizing more abundant hydrocarbons such as methane and natural gas by using a variety of catalytically active nanoporous metals. In this presentation, we will discuss key areas related to materials chemistry of such ultra-thin ionic conducting electrolytes, fundamental studies pertaining to surface relaxations under electrochemical perturbations and finally operational characteristics of the fuel cells towards distributed power generation.

High performance solid oxide fuel cells utilizing 2D oxide membranes

246th National Meeting (2013)

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