High Power Density Regenerative SOFCs

High altitude uninhabited air vehicles (UAVs) offer the opportunity to enhance border security and provide early warning for missile defense programs. These platforms offer an inexpensive alternative to satellite or manned reconnaissance aircraft, but require a night-time power source to augment solar panels in order to achieve long operating lifetimes. Regenerative Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (RSOFCs) will provide a means for these aircraft to remain aloft indefinitely as they efficiently convert sunlight energy to fuel during the day and fuel to electrical power at night. The objective of this Phase I program is to demonstrate a high power density RSOFC cell design. Using established materials and manufacturing approaches, it will be possible to produce RSOFC elements tailored for UAV power supplies. Studies will include evaluation of various cell architectures, materials and fabrication processes to produce robust, high efficiency cells.