Tubular Micro-Solid Oxide Fuel Cell for Remote Power Applications

An anode-supported tubular 'Micro Solid Oxide Fuel Cell' (μ SOFC) is being developed for fabrication of a high volumetric power density SOFC system for remote power applications. An Electrophoretic deposition (EPD) based manufacturing process is being developed for production of SOFC single cells, this process has the potential to simplify fabrication technology and reduce manufacturing costs. Micro Solid Oxide Fuel Cells have two main advantages, a substantial increase in the volumetric power density of a stack and quick start up. A decrease in single cell tube diameter allows for a reduction in wall thickness without any degradation of a cell's mechanical properties. Due to its thin wall, a μSOFC has an extremely high thermal shock resistance and low thermal mass. These two characteristics are fundamental in reducing start up and turn off time for the SOFC stack.