Self-Supported Thin Yttria-Stabilized Zirconia Electrolytes for Solid Oxide Fuel Cells Prepared by Laser Machining

Abstract

A new procedure to fabricate self-supported thin yttria-stabilised zirconia membranes by laser machining is presented. We have used a galvanometric controlled laser beam to machine the surface of a conventional sintered YSZ plate and achieved thin areas up to 10 µm thick, but also maintaining thicker support beams to ensure the structural strength of the membrane. The outer areas of the plate are left unaltered to facilitate the sealing of the cell. This kind of thin membrane is ideal to prepare electrolyte-supported Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (SOFC) operating at low temperature. The membranes have been characterized by optical profilometry, Raman Spectroscopy and Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy. Using the laser machined YSZ electrolyte a conventional YSZ-Ni/YSZ/LSM planar Solid Oxide Fuel Cell has been fabricated and characterized.