Nano-Composite Ni-Gd0.1Ce0.9O1.95 Anode Functional Layer for Low Temperature Solid Oxide Fuel Cells

Low temperature solid oxide fuel cells (LT-SOFCs) are favourable for various applications such as vehicles, residual power generations, and even portable chargers. However, low power density is considered as a main obstacle for LT-SOFCs. Many studies concentrate on improving the cathode part for better oxygen dissociation and reducing the electrolyte thickness for faster oxygen transfer. However, the anode part and the interface between anode and electrolyte can significantly contribute to increasing power density at low temperatures. In this study, the nano-composite Ni-Gd0.1Ce0.9O1.95 anode functional layer (AFL) powder with core/shell-like shape is prepared for LT-SOFCs with high power density. The AFL deposited on the anode supports by dip-coating process had better Ni and Ce distribution and the interface between the electrolyte and the AFL are well connected. In hydrogen condition, the maximum power density of 0.98 Wcm−2 appears at 600 °C in the cell with the AFL. Even at 450 °C, the cell has 0.34 Wcm−2 in the maximum power density, which is appropriate for LT-SOFCs operation. Based on the performance at low temperature, additional cell tests are conducted on the cell with the AFL in various fuel conditions including methane and ammonia.

Graphical abstractThe solid oxide fuel cell with the nano-composite Ni-GDC anode functional layer exhibits high performance at low temperatures in hydrogen condition, which is more stable in methane condition than the cell without the anode functional layer.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slide