Metal-supported solid oxide fuel cell fabrication by plasma spraying technique

Metal-supported fuel cell provides mechanical support for the electrochemically active layers (anode, electrolyte and cathode) and serves as the anodic electrical connection. In the field of high temperature fuel cell (HTFC), metal-supported bipolar plate contributes rapid thermal cycling which is vital for even distribution of temperature across the cell. In this experimental piece of work, atmospheric plasma spraying technique (APS) is adopted for fabrication of anode and electrolyte layers while Solution Precursor plasma spraying (SPPS) technique is used to produce cathode layer. Support consists of two parts including an aluminum disc as substrate plate pressed to surrounding stainless steel ring which carries fuel to cell. Ferritic stainless steel support contributes functionality of cell in different ways. First, it acts as current collector. Second, since it is less brittle in comparison with Ni/YSZ so it provides better mechanical robustness. This article shows fabrication of cell step by step by expressing both materials and techniques which have been used and finally it follows by constructing a stack according to explained design.

Keywords:

Bipolar Plate , Ferritic , Fuel Cell , Stack , Stainless Steel