Optimization of Ni-YSZ anodes for tubular SOFC by a novel and efficient phase inversion-impregnation approach

• Published in: Journal of alloys and compounds Vol. 750; pp. 130 - 138
• Main Authors: Han, Zongying, Yang, Zhibin, Han, Minfang
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Lausanne Elsevier B.V 25.06.2018; Elsevier BV
• Subjects: Anodes; Catalysis; Catalysts; Electrodes; Electron transfer; Impregnation; Iron; Nickel; Optimization; Phase inversion; Phase shift; Phase transitions; Solid oxide fuel cell; Solid oxide fuel cells; Triple-phase boundary; Yttria-stabilized zirconia; Phase inversion; Impregnation; Solid oxide fuel cell; Triple-phase boundary
• ISSN: 0925-8388; 1873-4669
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jallcom.2018.02.135

In this work, a novel phase inversion-impregnation method is developed for SOFC electrode optimization, in which the catalyst precursor solution is innovatively employed as the coagulation bath. Via this method, nanoscale transition metal Fe and Ni catalysts are successfully introduced into the Ni-YSZ anodes in one-step. The maximum power densities of Fe and Ni impregnated anode-supported SOFCs at 800 °C are improved from 0.38 W cm−2 to 0.40 and 0.48 W cm−2 in H2 fuel while from 0.32 W cm−2 to 0.37 and 0.45 W cm−2 in CH4 fuel. The upgraded cell performance is mainly attributed to the reduction of polarization resistance and the extending of the electron transfer path. In addition to the enhanced efficacy of Ni-YSZ anodes, the as-proposed novel approach would likely offer time and cost savings compared to traditional impregnation methods, exhibiting a promising application in fabricating SOFC electrodes. [Display omitted] •A novel phase inversion-impregnation approach is proposed for anode optimization.•Nano catalysts are uniformly introduced into the Ni-YSZ tubular anodes in one-step.•Maximum power densities of tubular anode-supported SOFCs are improved.