High-Performance Direct Ethanol Solid Oxide Fuel Cells

Abstract

An anode supported solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) with a dual layer anode consisting of a Cu-CeO2 impregnated Ni-yttria stabilized zirconia (YSZ) support outer layer and a Ni-YSZ electroactive inner layer was investigated for the direct operation on ethanol. High electrochemical performance without evidence of anode coking was demonstrated at 800°C in short term tests. A peak power density of about 400 mW/cm2 was obtained with 7.3% ethanol balance He fuel and air oxidant.