Anode-Supported Solid Oxide Fuel Cells with Thin Film Electrolyte for Operation at Reduced Temperatures

In order to reduce the operating temperature of solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs), anodesupported cells incorporating thin film (~10 μm) electrolytes in conjunction with anode/electrolyte and cathode/electrolyte interlayers were studied. Anode supported button cells were prepared through a conventional approach and were analyzed via Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Polarization, and Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS). It was found that the electro-catalytic activity and electrode/electrolyte interfacial areas were enhanced through the addition of these interlayers. This performance improvement was attributed to the introduction of a diffuse mixed conduction region associated with these interlayers. The cathode appeared to benefit disproportionately from this enhancement.