In the quest to make solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) more durable and efficient, researchers have made a significant stride. A team led by Xichao Li from Qingdao University has developed a protective coating that could extend the life of SOFCs, potentially revolutionizing the energy sector. The findings, published in the journal *Corrosion Communications* (which could be translated to *Anti-corrosion Communication*), offer a promising solution to a longstanding challenge in SOFC technology.
SOFCs are highly efficient and environmentally friendly, but their widespread adoption has been hindered by performance degradation over time. The primary culprit? Chromium (Cr) poisoning. Cr-based ferritic stainless steel (FSS), commonly used in SOFC interconnects, releases Cr-containing compounds that volatilize and poison the fuel cell’s electrodes, reducing efficiency.
Enter the Ti(Nb)-Si-C coating. Prepared using DC magnetron sputtering, this protective layer forms a dense, uniform structure on the surface of SUS 430, a type of stainless steel. “The coated samples show greatly enhanced oxidation resistance compared to bare alloy,” Li explains. The key to this improvement lies in the formation of a Ti- and Si-rich outer oxide layer, which effectively inhibits the outward diffusion and volatilization of Cr.
The implications for the energy sector are substantial. SOFCs have long been touted as a clean, efficient power source, but their commercial viability has been hampered by durability issues. This new coating could change that, making SOFCs a more attractive option for large-scale energy production.
Moreover, the thin oxide layers formed on the coated alloy exhibit excellent electrical properties, with an area-specific resistance (ASR) value of just 12.8 mΩ·cm² after 500 hours of oxidation at 800 °C. This is a crucial factor for SOFC performance, as high ASR can lead to significant voltage losses.
So, what does this mean for the future of SOFC technology? Li’s research suggests that with the right protective coating, SOFCs could become more durable and efficient, paving the way for their wider adoption in the energy sector. “This coating could extend the life of SOFCs, making them a more viable option for large-scale energy production,” Li says.
As the world seeks clean, efficient energy solutions, this research offers a promising path forward. By addressing one of the key challenges in SOFC technology, Li and his team have opened up new possibilities for the future of energy.