3D Microstructural characterization of a solid oxide fuel cell anode reconstructed by focused ion beam tomography

The three-dimensional microstructure of an SOFC anode has been characterized using a focused ion beam-scanning electron microscope. The sample preparation and the experimental milling and imaging parameters have been optimized in order to obtain a high-quality 3D reconstruction. Volume fractions and the volumetric connectivity of the individual phases, specific surface and interface areas and the three-phase boundary length have been estimated. Effective thermal, electronic and ionic conductivities of the sample as well as the tortuosity of the solid phases have been evaluated by solving the diffusive transport equation with an implicit 3D finite difference method.

► 3D images of a 1000 μm3 volume in a Ni-8YSZ cermet have ben reconstructed from FIB tomography. ► Calculation of volume fractions, volumetric connectivity of the individual phases, specific surface and interface areas and three-phase boundary length have been performed. ► 3D finite difference method has been used to evaluate the effective thermal, electronic and ionic conductivities as well as of the tortuosity of the solid phases.