Review of SOFC Cathode Performance Enhancement by Surface Modifications: Recent Advances and Future Directions

Abstract

Cathode materials with high electrochemical catalytic activity, stability, and durability at medium/low temperatures are still critical challenges for the commercialization of solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs). Therefore, various surface modification techniques have been employed to improve the performance of SOFC cathodes. Significant achievements have been made in enhancing the cathode catalytic activity and durability by surface modification, including solution infiltration, the atomic layer deposition technique (ALD), and the one-pot method. Surface modification is considered to be one of the most effective approaches to enhance the catalytic activity and durability of the cathodes with the advantages of low cost and time savings. This review illustrates the fundamental principles, recent progress, advantages, disadvantages, challenges, and prospects of these advanced surface modification technologies. Furthermore, this article provides valuable guidance and potential directions for these surface modification methods toward the commercialization of SOFC technology.

Review and Outlook on the Utilization of Low-Concentration Coalbed Methane for Power Generation by Solid Oxide Fuel Cells

“…Therefore, the development of cell materials and the optimization of the system structure of the low-concentration CBM-fueled SOFC are key research directions for the future. On the other hand, the research of cathode materials is also an important direction in which scholars are concerned. − The research of cathode materials has made some progress in recent years, and there has been a relevant review in this regard. − Furthermore, the scientific community has witnessed rapid advances in emerging materials, such as chalcogenides, which offer promising opportunities for developing anodes that exhibit improved stability and durability against carbon deposition and sulfur poisoning. Given the rapid advancement of material science research, the development of novel anode materials remains a critical research direction that holds significant potential for advancing SOFC technology in the future.…”

Advancements in Perovskite‐Based Cathode Materials for Solid Oxide Fuel Cells: A Comprehensive Review

“…Chen et al and Hiraldo et al provided a comprehensive analysis of how surface modification impacts the performance of electrodes in solid oxide fuel cells for a more in-depth exploration. [54,107] According to reports, the addition of metal nanoparticles such as Ag, Pd and Pr in LSCF matrix enhances their catalytic activity including oxygen adsorption, desorption, dissociation, and diffusion due to typical properties of metal nanoparticles. [108][109][110] There is extensive research on Ag nanoparticles as additive among these additives due to their cost effectiveness and their capability to facilitate oxygen adsorption, desorption, dissociation, and diffusion.…”

An active and durable air electrode with self-generated nanoparticles decorated on the surface for reversible oxygen-ionic ceramic electrochemical cells

“…Sr-doped lanthanum manganate (LSM) has been widely studied and commercially applied as the first generation of perovskite air electrodes due to its reasonable activity and good stability at high temperatures. 15 However, limited by the low electrocatalytic activity at reduced temperatures, LSM-based air electrodes have gradually been replaced by cutting-edge mixed ionic–electronic conductors (MIECs) in recent years. 16 The electrocatalytic activity of MIEC materials is increased given that the reaction sites are extended from the electrode–electrolyte interface to the entire inner surface of the air electrode.…”