Development of Various Solid Oxide Cell Technology and Stack Platforms at Nexceris, LCC

Abstract

With over 25 years of experience in solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) materials, components and stack development, Nexceris has been rapidly expanding the technology portfolio. Development in Fuel Cell Materials, FlexCell and ChromLok technology are only a few examples. Stack testing capability up to 5 kW has been developed. Modular high-performance stack platforms that accommodate cells from 40 cm2 to 250 cm2 are being utilized, depending on customer requirements and system needs. Recently, Nexceris expanded its R&D efforts into solid oxide electrolysis cell (SOEC) technology. Initial performance of -1.5 A/cm2 and 500-hour durability tests at 1.3-1.4 V and 800 °C in short stacks show promising platform for further SOEC performance and durability improvements. Besides anode- and electrolyte- supported cell development, metal-supported cells (MSCs) have also been successfully developed at Nexceris and scaled to 250 cm2. The structure, performance and durability of MSCs are being continuously improved. Short 5-cell stacks are currently being demonstrated and the results will guide further stack development. A wide range of cell and stack technology developed at Nexceris provides capability to tailor cells and stacks based on user applications, whether those include continuous non-interrupted stationary operation or dynamic operation such as rapid thermal and redox cycling in mobile applications.