Direct lamination of solid oxide fuel cell anode support, anode, and electrolyte by sequential tape casting of thermoreversible gel slips

A novel direct lamination technique by tape casting thermoreversible gel-based slips is introduced for the production of solid oxide fuel cell anode support, anode, and electrolyte layers. Production of cells with controlled layer thicknesses of ∼10–500 μm and having well formed and relatively high toughness interfaces is demonstrated. Cells with maximum current density of 1.76 A·cm−2 and maximum power density 425 mW cm−2 were achieved using 97% H2/3% H2O fuel at 800 °C. Specific opportunities for further optimization of processing to improve electrochemical performance are highlighted.

► Thermoreversible triblock copolymer gels are adapted to tape casting of SOFCs.
► Direct lamination affords sequential casting of electrolyte, anode and anode support.
► Exemplary interlaminar strength derives from localized melting during lamination.