A mixed proton-oxide ion-electron conducting anode for highly coking-resistant solid oxide fuel cells

A multi-phase mixed proton-oxide ion-electron conducting composite is employed as a new anode material for a coking-resistant solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) based on oxide ion conducting electrolyte, operated in methane and ethanol. The formation of BaO/Ni interfaces can effectively readily adsorb water and facilitate water-mediated carbon removal. The fast oxygen ions flux and formed steam at anode side are also found to be favorable for hydrocarbon reformation to promote the cell performance and long term stability. At 700 °C, maximum power densities of 580 and 368 mW cm−2 are achieved in methane and ethanol, respectively. The resistance against carbon deposition is significantly improved, showing stable voltage in 120 h durability test.