Solid oxide fuel cell research

SOFC

3D SOFC anodes

3D imaging and quantification of interfaces in SOFC anodes

We demonstrated it is possible to understand how micro-structure contributes to differences observed in electrochemical and mechanical performance; facilitating optimisation of electrode micro/nano structure towards improved performance.
Nanoparticles scaffodls

Nanoparticle scaffolds for syngas-fed SOFCs

We show that nanoparticles can be incorporated into SOFC electrodes, and that they allow sintering temperatures to be lowered by 300 °C, even when conventional micron-sized particles are used.
Effect of Sulfur on SOFC anodes

Effect of Sulfur- and Tar-Contaminated Syngas on SOFCs

We expose Ni-CGO anode materials to sulfur and a model tar (toluene) and show that toluene, sulfur and carbon monoxide compete for active sites, with different effects on carbon deposition. This indicates that over-simplification of model fuel feeds may not give an accurate indication of real-world performance.

Papers 3

Miniature SOFC Raman Rig

Miniaturised SOFC rig for Raman measurements

We report the design of a miniaturised heated stage for in situ optical measurements of SOFC electrode surfaces, and probe the oxidation of SOFC anodes using in situ Raman spectroscopy
Solid Oxide Electrolysis

Carbon deposition mechanism on nickel during co-electrolysis

We show a raman spectroscopic study of the carbon deposition mechanism on Ni/CGO electrodes during CO/CO2 electrolysis, and show how a CGO interlayer improves carbon resistance.
Copper SOFC electrodes

Carbon resistant copper electrodes for biogas electrolysis

We show zero carbon deposition using copper-infiltrated gadolinia doped ceria electrodes for upgrading of simulated biogas CO2/H2O/CH4 mixtures in solid oxide electrolysis cells

Papers 2

SOFC Diagram

Thermodynamics and kinetics of SOFC anodes

We review the interactions of carbon and sulfur with solid oxide fuel cell anodes, and show that kinetics are very important and cannot be ignored, and hence models assuming thermodynamic equilibrium are not suitable.
Carbon deposition

Carbon deposition on nickel cermet electrodes

We show that current can protect nickel cermet electrodes from carbon deposition using carbon monoxide as the fuel in SOFC but that water speeds up the kinetics of carbon formation, showing syngas is far more aggressive.
3 electrode measurements

Using EIS to correct three electrode measurements

The use of electrochemical impedance spectroscopy to compensate for errors when measuring polarisation curves during three-electrode measurements of solid oxide fuel cell electrodes is demonstrated.