Micro solid oxide fuel cells: a new generation of micro-power sources for portable applications

Abstract

Portable electronic devices are already an indispensable part of our daily life; and their increasing number and demand for higher performance is becoming a challenge for the research community. In particular, a major concern is the way to efficiently power these energy-demanding devices, assuring long grid independency with high efficiency, sustainability and cheap production. In this context, technologies beyond Li-ion are receiving increasing attention, among which the development of micro solid oxide fuel cells (μSOFC) stands out. In particular, μSOFC provides a high energy density, high efficiency and opens the possibility to the use of different fuels, such as hydrocarbons. Yet, its high operating temperature has typically hindered its application as miniaturized portable device. Recent advances have however set a completely new range of lower operating temperatures, i.e. 350-450ºC, as compared to the typical >900ºC needed for classical bulk SOFC systems. In this work, a comprehensive review of the status of the technology is presented. The main achievements, as well as the most important challenges still pending are discussed, regarding (i.) the cell design and microfabrication, and (ii.) the integration of functional electrolyte and electrode materials. To conclude, the different strategies foreseen for a wide deployment of the technology as new portable power source are underlined.

Deposition and Electrical and Structural Properties of La0.6Sr0.4CoO3 Thin Films for Application in High-Temperature Electrochemical Cells

“…[12][13][14] Spray pyrolysis has been also studied as a possible method for the deposition of electrolytes and electrodes for miniaturized solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs). [15][16][17][18] These fuel cells offer high energy conversion efficiency, and in some applications they can compete with Li-ion batteries. 16,19,20 The performance of SOFCs at low temperatures is often described as being limited by a sluggish oxygen reduction reaction.…”

“…[15][16][17][18] These fuel cells offer high energy conversion efficiency, and in some applications they can compete with Li-ion batteries. 16,19,20 The performance of SOFCs at low temperatures is often described as being limited by a sluggish oxygen reduction reaction. [21][22][23] New materials are therefore being sought and improved fabrication methods (for example allowing nanocrystalline materials) are being developed.…”

Powering internet-of-things from ambient energy: a review

“…Another promising type of miniaturized power generator for portable application is micro Solid oxide fuel cells (µSOFCs) [348,349]. µSOFCs are characterized by the use of an oxygen ion conducting metal oxide thin film as an electrolyte.…”

Review of Fuel Cell Technologies and Applications for Sustainable Microgrid Systems

“…The study also examined the advantages, shortcomings, and possible application of the technologies for grid-connected systems in household, mobile, industrial, and commercial systems. Another research study also examined the potential of solid oxide FC systems for micro-power sources in portable devices [22].…”