PNNL

Abstract

The potential benefits of fuel cell-based power generation systems have been known for years. In comparison with conventional power generation technologies, fuel cells potentially offer high chemical to electrical conversion efficiency, modular construction, high quality waste heat, and lower pollutants emissions. Among the various types of fuel cells being developed, solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) have several advantages over other types of fuel cells, such as alkaline, polymer and molten carbonate. Advantages include fuel flexibility, solid state construction, an invariant (solid) electrolyte, high quality waste heat, and the absence of precious metals. However, a number of challenges must be overcome before SOFC-based power systems can be considered a viable alternative in the power generation marketplace. Many of these challenges are related to the severe demands that this technology places on the materials from which SOFC cells and stacks are constructed due to their high operating temperature (typically 600-1000ºC). Considerable progress will be required in terms to materials of construction, fabrication techniques, and design for the performance and cost goals necessary for large-scale commercialization to be achieved.