Microtubular solid-oxide fuel cells for low-temperature operation

Electrochemical ceramic cells such as solid-oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) are typically operated at 700–800°C in order to realize practical performances that, in turn, result in higher efficiencies compared to that of other types of electrochemical cells. High-temperature operation, on the other hand, leads to increased system cost and limits application. Thus, lowering the operating temperature is expected to solve such problems. This article shows the effectiveness of redesigning the cell structure for reduction of the operating temperature to 650°C or lower using conventional SOFC materials. A microtubular cell design is found to be one means of lowering the operating temperature of SOFCs. Such developments in fabrication technology are key to realizing high-performance cells with a thin electrolyte and controlled electrode microstructures.