Research Projects

Metal-supported solid oxide fuel cell is a next-generation solid oxide fuel cell device that converts chemical energy stored in fuel and oxidant into electrical energy. Metal-supported solid oxide fuel cells (MS-SOFCs) offer several advantages over traditional anode-supported SOFCs. These include lower material costs, enhanced mechanical strength and thermal shock resistance, faster start-up times, and simplified stack assembly. The primary objective of this project proposal is to develop an indigenous, continuous process line for the fabrication of defect-free high-performance MS-SOFC single cells [5×5 cm2]. The systematic electrochemical performances will be evaluated in the temperature range of 750-600°C using hydrated H2 as a fuel and O2 as an oxidant. As part of this project, the fabrication and performance optimization of perforated metal substrates will represent a novel achievement, contributing significantly to the overall cost reduction of the system. Additionally, deposition of thin [8-10 μm] and highly dense electrolyte on the porous anode layer will be a key milestone for the improvement of power density of the single cell while significantly minimizing the overall ohmic polarization resistance. Every fabrication step is intended to be optimized based on single-cell performance, including I-V characteristics and impedance spectroscopy analysis, and modelling.