Proton Conducting Solid Oxide Fuel Cells

The use of a proton-conducting electrolyte in a solid oxide fuel cell offers the opportunity for very high efficiency operation compared to an oxygen-ion-conducting electrolyte. However, the poor stability of the proton-conducting material, within a typcial fuel gas composition, has hampered the development of this technology. This project will develop a compositional and surface modification technique to improve the stability of the proton conducting electrolite. Long term, stable fuel cell operation will be demonstrated in the presence of hydrocarbon fuel. In Phase I, proton conductivity will be improved through cation dopant modification. The feasibility of improved stability under fuel cell conditions will be evaluated. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: The technology should result in high-efficiency solid oxide fuel cells that use hydrogen- or hydrocarbon-based fuels for stationary and mobile power sources.