Cathode materials for high-performance intermediate temperature operating metal-supported solid oxide fuel cells

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Solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) are a promising energy conversion technology owing to their high efficiency and low environmental impact. SOFCs are being successfully implemented in combined heat and power systems and off-grid power generation. However, further improvements in the technology could extend its application to the transportation sector, particularly as an auxiliary power unit range extender for heavy trucks, trains, aircrafts, and ships. Metal-supported SOFCs (MS-SOFCs) are the latest generation of SOFC architecture from the decades-long development of the technology. MS-SOFCs have the highest potential among the SOFCs in transportation owing to their reduced cost and improved thermal and redox cycling tolerance. This two-year University of Calgary (U of C) and Nissan Motor Corp. (Nissan USA) joint project aims to demonstrate stable, high-performance MS-SOFCs that operate at the intermediate temperature range of 500-700 °C. Stability, durability, and high electrochemical energy conversion rate are achieved by employing the infiltration technique, in which a solution containing electrode catalyst is introduced into a prefabricated, porous metal-supported electrolyte assembly. The assembly is then heated to form nano-sized electrocatalysts that are highly active for electrochemically converting fuel to electricity. Nissan and its partners have developed a symmetric metal-supported backbone and the active materials for the anode side. The project will focus on infiltrating catalysts into the cathode layer. The proposed two-year project will train a minimum of 3 highly qualified personnel per year (one research associate, one graduate student, and one undergraduate student per year). With support from tri-council and one of the leaders in the transportation sector, the project will address alternative clean energy conversion technology needs and relevant workforce needs that are critical for Canada's attempts to shift towards a clean energy future.