Time independent and time dependent probability of failure of solid oxide fuel cells by stress analysis and the Weibull method

► Instantaneous and time dependent probability of failure of an SOFC has been determined over a life cycle. ► For this, anode supported, cell the cathode layer has the highest instantaneous probability of failure. ► Failure probability of all layers increases significantly over time due to slow crack growth. ► The POF was 20 times larger for an operational temperature distribution compared to a uniform 800 °C. ► A cumulative density function is defined to account for a 'lifetime' probability of failure.