Optimisation of Metallic Interconnects for Hydrogen Production by High Temperature Water Vapour Electrolysis

Abstract

For economical and environmental reasons, hydrogen is considered as a major energetic vector for the future. Hydrogen production via high temperature water vapour electrolysis (HTE) is a promising technology. A major technical difficulty related to high temperature water vapour electrolysis is the development of interconnects working efficiently for a long period. Working temperature of 800°C enables the use of metallic materials as interconnects. Chromia forming alloys are among the best candidates. The interconnect material chosen in the present study is a ferritic stainless steel with 18% chromium content. High temperature corrosion resistance and electrical conductivity of the alloy was tested in both cathode (H2/H2O) and anode (O2/H2O) atmospheres. Corrosion products were then characterized by SEM-EDX and XRD. Moreover chromium evaporation measurements were carried out under anode atmosphere.