Proton Conducting Solid Oxide Fuel Cells

Although a proton-conducting electrolyte offers the opportunity for very high efficiency fuel cell operation, compared to an oxygen ion conducting electrolyte, the poor stability of the proton-conducting material in typcial fuel gas compositions has hampered technology development. This project will develop technology to address the stability issue, leading to a demonstration of long-term, stable, fuel cell operation using hydrocarbon fuel. In Phase I, a variety of dopants were evaluated to determine their effect on the conductivity and ion-transference number of proton conductors. Limiting factors were identified to improve performance and efficiency. Phase II will involve the further optimization of composition to improve conductivity at a lower temperature. Fabrication techniques will be developed for low resistance stacks, and prototype fuel cell short stacks will be constructed and tested. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: The technology should lead to high efficiency solid oxide fuel cells that use hydrogen or hydrocarbon based fuels for stationary and mobile power sources. As spin-off applications, the materials could be used in hydrogen separation membranes and in the electro-synthesis of value-added hydrocarbon chemicals.