Ionic Conductivity Method for measuring vaporized chromium species from solid oxide fuel cell interconnects

A novel method of measuring vaporized chromium species from metallics specimens, in real time, was developed to enable more rapid alloy and coating screening for use as solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) interconnects. This method, the Ionic Conductivity Method (ICM), simulates an SOFC environment and captures vaporized species into a de-ionized water (DI) solution where total amount of vaporized chromium can be measured. The development, design, and final implementation of this method is presented with calculations of expected theoretical accuracy and comparison with alternative methods. This method will allow for further investigation into vaporization kinetics, more rapid coating research, and facilitate inquiry into secondary vaporized species. Finally, ICM was used to measure the vaporization rates of bulk chromia, CroferAPU22, E-Brite, ZMG-232, and 441 Stainless Steel for comparison with current methods.

► Novel method to measure chromium vaporization in solid oxide fuel cells. ► Vaporized chromium measured by solution conductivity. ► Real time measurement of species. ► Capable of measuring multiple species. ► Provides comparable data to transpiration method.