Testing of solid-oxide fuel cells for micro to macro power generation

Conference · Sat May 01 04:00:00 EDT 1999

OSTI ID:12149

R, Graffm ^[1]; Hayes, J; Jankowski, A; Morse, J

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1. LLNL

Thin film, solid-oxide fuel cells (TFSOFCs) are developed using photolithographic patterning and physical vapor deposition. In this study, both electrode layers of nickel (Ni) and silver (Ag) as well as the solid- oxide electrolyte layer of yttria-stabilized zirconia (YSZ) are synthesized on the micrometer scale for thickness. The anode layer enables combination of the reactive gases, is conductive to pass the electric current, and provides mechanical support to the electrolyte and cathode layers. The morphology desired for both the anode and cathode layers facilitates generation of maximum current density from the fuel cell. For these purposes, the parameters of the deposition process and post- deposition patterning are optimized for continuous porosity across both electrode layers. The electrodes are characterized using scanning electron microscopy and the power output generated through current-voltage measurement. We find that a TFSOFC based on Ni-YSZ-Ag can be operate d with dilute fuel mixtures at temperatures below 300 C.

• Research Organization: Lawrence Livermore National Lab., CA (US)
• Sponsoring Organization: USDOE Office of Defense Programs (DP) (US)
• DOE Contract Number: W-7405-ENG-48
• OSTI ID: 12149
• Report Number(s): UCRL-JC-134198; YN0100000; 98-ERD-091; YN0100000; 98-ERD-091
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

30 DIRECT ENERGY CONVERSION
42 ENGINEERING
CURRENT DENSITY
ELECTRIC CURRENTS
FUEL CELLS
OXIDES
PHYSICAL VAPOR DEPOSITION
POWER GENERATION
SCANNING ELECTRON MICROSCOPY
TESTING
THIN FILMS