Optimization of the Microstructure of Molten Carbonate Fuel Cell Anode

Abstract

Development of Molten Carbonate Fuel Cells is strongly governed by improvement of durability and efficiency of the main components. This can only be achieved by defining the relationships between structure and properties of materials for MCFC. Present work introduces the results of optimization of the manufacturing process parameters and characterization of materials obtained herewith. Tape-casting manufacturing technique based on forming of a slurry with strictly defined composition and properties was used. The influence of slurry composition and further heat treatment conditions are correlated with structural parameters such as porosity and pore morphology in final products.

Electrode protective barrier layers for molten carbonate confinement

“…These layers were introduced to try to constrain the molten phase and thereby prevent possible changes in chemical composition and microstructure of electrode materials due to interaction with the molten phase. In line with this perspective, the efficiency of a transition metal oxide protective layer for Ni‐based electrodes was previously demonstrated as well as the complex role of the electrode microstructure on the performance of MCFCs 31‐33 . However, the interaction between a molten phase and a porous ceramic layer can be rather complex.…”

“…In line with this perspective, the efficiency of a transition metal oxide protective layer for Nibased electrodes was previously demonstrated as well as the complex role of the electrode microstructure on the performance of MCFCs. [31][32][33] However, the interaction between a molten phase and a porous ceramic layer can be rather complex. Multiple effects like particle coarsening or sintering, drift in chemical composition due to the reaction with the molten phase, or even variable wettability with microstructural changes might all be present, justifying proper attention to any change in performance with time, as hereby attempted.…”

Characterization of Spatial Distribution of Electrolyte in Molten Carbonate Fuel Cell Cathodes

“…The cathode, assembled with other MCFC components (anode − see, matrix, and electrolyte being eutectic mixture of Li/K carbonates), was analyzed in a single‐cell testing rig, where voltage, current density, and power density are measured under real operation conditions. The details of the testing procedure are given in ref.…”

“…The microstructure of open‐porous MCFC cathodes should compromise sufficient mass transport of gases through the pore space and a large surface area for high catalytic performance . As demonstrated in previous papers, the design of the internal architecture of MCFC cathodes is a major concern. It should be mainly targeted on maximizing the active area for electrode reactions in the fuel cell.…”