ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on the development of nanocomposite electrolytes for advanced fuel-cell technology (NANOCOFC), i.e. the next generation SOFCs, which have low-temperature (300–600 °C), and are marketable and affordable. In addition, new concepts that pertain to fuel-cell science and technology—NANOCOFC (www.nanocofc.com)—are explored and developed.
To commercialise SOFCs, researchers have sought to reduce their operating temperatures by developing new electrolyte materials with high ionic conductivities. However, the operation of SOFCs remains costly using conventional methods, and a reduction in operating temperature would significantly reduce both component (including inter-connects, sealing materials, and manifold materials) and manufacturing costs. The content of this chapter is divided into three below parts:
Development of materials: Nanocomposite electrolytes synthesis through different chemical routes is described. The particle size is optimised at the nano-ordered scale. The ionic conduction phenomena and ionic transport number will be measured and discussed, as they relate to the dependence on the structure, composition, and morphology of the nanoparticles in the solid and molten phases.
Characterisation and analysis : The crystalline structure, microstructure, and morphology of the synthesised nanocomposite materials are characterised by XRD, SEM with EDX, and TEM. The main route of ionic conduction is the interface between the solid and liquid phases, which are investigated through high-temperature Raman spectroscopy. Moreover, the thermal properties and phase-transition phenomena obtained from the thermal analyses (TG-DTA, DSC) are investigated to determine the effect of the solid phase and optimise the operating conditions of the ASOFC. Advanced electrochemical impedance spectroscopy is used to determine the interfaces and electrochemical mechanism.
Demonstration of the nanocomposite materials for an ASOFC: The composition of the developed materials is optimised based on extensive material characterisations and fuel-cell measurements. The performance of the fuel cells is used to direct further material developments.
This developed ASOFC systems with functional nanocomposites offer significant advantages in reducing the operational and capital costs for the production of power and heat by using different fuels based on the fuel-cell technology. ASOFC systems can be used for polygeneration with renewable fuels (i.e. biomass fuels) at high efficiency as a sustainable solution to energy generation in our society.
