Ceramic materials and systems for the commercialization of solid oxide fuel cells

SOFC (solid oxide fuel cell) technol. has reached a level of maturity at which commercialization can be started. Current product concepts focus on stationary small-scale combined heat and power (CHP) or mobile auxiliary power units (APU). The high operating temp., broad choice of fuels, and cost-effective materials give SOFCs an advantage over other generation technologies. Fraunhofer IKTS has developed multiple technologies and materials that will help to commercialize SOFCs: high-power electrochem. cells, glass seals, and metallic interconnector concepts. Design principles and operating experiences of stacks manufd. from these components are discussed. Based on the results, the authors propose a road map of future development paths.