The high oxide ion conductivity over wide ranges of temperatures and oxygen pressures in stabilized zirconia has led to its use as a solid oxide electrolyte in a variety of electrochemical applications. These include high temperature solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) which offer a clean, low-pollution technology to electrochemically generate electricity at high efficiencies. These fuel cells provide many advantages over traditional energy conversion systems, including high efficiency, reliability, modularity, fuel adaptability, and very low levels of NOx and SOx emissions. Quiet, vibration-free operation of SOFCs also eliminates noise usually associated with conventional power generation systems. Furthermore, because of their high operating temperatures (800-1000C), some hydrocarbon fuels such as naural gas can either be utilized directly or reformed within the cell stack eliminating the need for an expensive, external reformer. Also, pressurized SOFCs can be integrated with gas turbines, and such hybrid power systems are expected to reach efficiencies approaching 75%. This paper reviews the current status of the solid oxide fuel cell technology for use in stationary power generation systems and transportation auxiliary power units.
Revised: September 12, 2003 |
Published: April 1, 2002
Citation
Singhal S.C. 2002.Zirconia Electrolyte Based Fuel Cells. In High Temperature Materials, Proceedings 2002 (5), 2002., edited by S. C. Singhal and W. L. Worrell, 5, 43-53. Pennington, New Jersey:The Electrochemical Society, Inc.PNNL-SA-38319.