Reviewing metal supported solid oxide fuel cells for efficient electricity generation with biofuels for mobility

Author(s)

Antunes, Fabio C. ; de Oliveira, Joao P. J. ; de Abreu, Ricardo S. ; Dias, Thiago ; Brandao, Bruno B. N. S. ; Goncalves, Josue M. ; Ribeiro, Josimar ; Hunt, Julian ; Zanin, Hudson ; Doubek, Gustavo

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: JOURNAL OF ENERGY CHEMISTRY; v. 103, p. 48-pg., 2024-12-24.

Abstract

Metal-Supported Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (MS-SOFCs) hold significant potential for driving the energy transition. These electrochemical devices represent the most advanced generation of Solid Oxide Fuel Cell (SOFCs) and can pave the way for mass production and wider adoption than Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells (PEMFCs) due to their fuel flexibility, higher power density and the absence of noble metals in the fabrication processes. This review examines the state-of-the-art of SOFCs and MS-SOFCs, presenting perspectives and research directions for these key technological devices, highlighting novel materials, techniques, architectures, devices, and degradation mechanisms to address current challenges and future opportunities. Techniques such as infiltration/impregnation, ex-solution catalyst synthesis, and the use of a pre-catalytic reformer layer are discussed as their impact on efficiency and prolonged activity. These concepts are also described and connected with well-dispersed nanoparticles, hindrance of coarsening, and an increased number of Triple Phase Boundaries (TPBs). This review also describes the synergistic use of reformers with MS-SOFCs to compose solutions in energy generation from readily available fuels. Lastly, the End-of-Life (EoL), recycling, and life-cycle assessments (LCAs) of the Fuel Cell Hybrid Electric Vehicles (FCHEVs) were discussed. LCAs comparing Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles (FCEVs) equipped with (PEMFCs) and FCHEVs equipped with MS-SOFCs, both powered with hydrogen (H2) generated by different routes were compared. This review aims to provide valuable insights into these key technological devices, emphasizing the importance of robust research and development to enhance performance and lifespan while reducing costs and environmental impact. (c) 2024 Science Press and Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences. Published by Elsevier B.V. and Science Press. All rights are reserved, including those for text and data mining, AI training, and similar technologies. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 17/11958-1 - CINE - Advanced Energy Storage Division
• Grantee: Rubens Maciel Filho
• Support Opportunities: Research Grants - Research Centers in Engineering Program
• FAPESP's process: 17/11986-5 - Generation and storage of New Energy: bringing technological development for the country
• Grantee: Ana Flávia Nogueira
• Support Opportunities: Research Grants - Research Centers in Engineering Program
• FAPESP's process: 14/02163-7 - Development of supercapacitors devices from graphene, carbon nanotubes and diamonds
• Grantee: Hudson Giovani Zanin
• Support Opportunities: Research Grants - Young Investigators Grants
• FAPESP's process: 22/02235-4 - Development of solid oxide fuel cells and ethanol reformer
• Grantee: João Pedro Jenson de Oliveira
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Master