Evaluation of proton conducting BCY10-based anode supported cells by co-pressing method: Up-scaling, performances and durability

• Commercial powders produced at kilogram scale have been analysed and used.
• The maximum power density of around 180 mW cm−2 is obtained at 600 °C on both sizes.
• The co-pressing method is only efficient at the laboratory scale.

One of the main target of the French ANR CONDOR (2009–2011) project coordinated by EDF-EIFER was the elaboration of proton conducting BaCe0,9Y0,1O3−δ-based cells using processes suitable at industrial level. Thus, commercial powders produced at kilogram scale (anode, electrolyte and cathode) have been analysed and used. Then, elaboration of protonic ceramic half-cells by co-pressing method from 25 mm to 80 mm in diameter has been assessed in order to establish the suitability of this shaping method regarding industrial requirements. According to results, the co-pressing method is relevant for the elaboration of cells up to 40 mm in diameter (laboratory experiment). A sintering step was carried out to densify the electrolyte layer to get a gas-tight membrane. Nickelate-based cathodes were screen-printed and electrochemical performances of the final assembly have been measured. Electrical power up to 180 mW cm−2 at 600 °C has been obtained on both 25 and 40 mm cells.