Novel AC-MO-CSC Anode for Direct Methanol Low Temperature Ceramic Fuel Cells

Abstract

Low temperature (300 to 650 °C) ceramic fuel cells (LTCFCs) were developed by using novel AC-MO-CSC anode material based on activated carbon (AC), transition metal oxides (MO) and ceria-salt composites (CSC). The activated carbon was first used to improve the characters of anode materials, especially to enhance the anode catalytic activity for liquid hydrocarbon fuels, e.g., methanol. The microstructure, conductivity and electrochemical properties of anode materials were investigated as functions of the activated carbon. Using the anode materials, maximum power density of 0.2 W cm-2 was achieved for fuel cells directly operating methanol at 600 °C.