PNNL

Abstract

Over the past several years, advances in the design and fabrication of planar SOFCs have led to a steady reduction in the temperatures necessary for their operation. Consequently, it appears more realistic now to use low cost heat resistant alloys for interconnect sub-components in the SOFC stack. Considering these materials requirements, heat resistant alloys, which overall demonstrate oxidation resistance at elevated temperatures, could be potential candidates. Overall, the heat resistant alloys of interest may include superalloys and the stainless steels. Depending whether a chromia or alumina scale forms on the alloy surface for protection, these heat resistant alloys can be also classified into chromia or alumina formers, repetitively. To help screening alloys and understanding the interface of sealing glass, a couple of alloy compositions have been carefully chosen as a reprehensive of different groups of alloys for the study on their chemical compatibility with a barium-aluminosilicate base glass. These alloys selected are AL 29-4, Nicrofer 6025, and Fecralloy, representing chromia forming stainless steels, superalloys and alumina formers, respectively. Results of chemical and microstructural analyses on sealing glass interfaces with different alloys will be presented, and accordingly, the applicability of alloys in terms of sealing glass chemical compatibility will be discussed. Possible means of modification on alloys for an improved applicability will be elaborated as well.