Challenges of processing and operating metal supported fuel cells

Metal supported fuel cells (MSCs) are attractive for non-stationary energy applications like fuel cellgenerators or range extender for battery electric vehicles. Contrary to conventional anode (ASC) or electrolytesupported (ESC) solid oxide fuel cells, MSCs promise improved mechanical stability and less production costs. Asclose cooperation between Forschungszentrum Jülich, TU Wien, Plansee SE and AVL List GmbH, the ChristianDoppler Laboratory for Interfaces in Metal-supported Electrochemical Energy Converters contributes to thedevelopment of the Plansee MSC concept. A specific focus lies on the optimized processing of the electrodes aimingon increased electrochemical performance and long-term stability. Recently, significant progress in cell performancewas achieved by optimizing the sintering procedure of the cathode, enabling to introduce LSC as cathode material ofthe Plansee MSC. An adapted sintering route using an atmosphere with controlled oxygen partial pressure, optimizedparticle size and sintering aids enabled to improve the sintering behaviour of the cathode in moderate temperatures. Inparallel, Ni/GDC anode with optimized microstructure was introduced. Both measures resulted in a significant increaseof electrochemical performance. The presentation summarizes the latest results including a general discussion offactors which must be considered to achieve improved long-term stability as well