A new method for fabrication of metal-cermet anodes in solid-oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) has been developed. Highly porous, yttriastabilized zirconia (YSZ) films were prepared using a mixture of zircon fibers (YSZp, Si-stabilized, and <0.3% Si) and normal YSZ powders (YSZd). The films remained highly porous following calcination up to 1550ЊC, after which either Cu or Ni could be incorporated by impregnation with the nitrate salts. For Cu cermets, the performance increased with metal loading to at least 40% Cu. At 800ЊC using H 2 as the fuel and a 230 m, YSZ electrolyte, the current-voltage (I-V) curves for either a Cu-or Ni-cermet anode formed using this new method were found to be identical to the I-V curve for a Ni cermet formed using traditional methods. Scanning electron microscopy showed that the anode films remained porous even with addition of Cu, so that additional modification was possible. Tests of this concept through the addition of ceria by impregnation with the Ce(NO 3 ) 3 led to an additional increase in the cell performance.

A Novel Method for Preparing Anode Cermets for Solid Oxide Fuel Cells.-A novel method for the fabrication of metal-cermet anodes for solid oxide fuel cells is developed. The concept is to prepare a highly porous yttria-stabilized zirconia layer on the electrolyte and to impregnate the layer with the corresponding metal salt only after it is calcined to the high temperatures necessary for achieving high ionic conductivity. The method allows the formation of either Cu or Ni-cermets. Other components such as ceria can be added easily. Good performance of the anodes in H 2 fuel cells at 800 • C is demonstrated. -(CRACIUM, R.; PARK, S.; GORTE, R. J.; VOHS, J. M.; WANG, C.; WORRELL, W. L.; J.