Microstructural Engineering of SOFC and SOEC Electrode Interfaces

Abstract

The most important electrochemical reactions in a solid oxide fuel cell or electrolyser take place within a few microns of the electrolyte interface Here we compare and contrast two new ways to design and control this interface. The first is impregnation of precursor solutions to form nanoscale electrocatalysts in situ and the second is exolution of buried catalysts as nano-scale particles. The evolution of nanostructure under operating conditions is described and promising electrochemical performance data presented in both SOFC and SOEC modes.