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2016 | Book

Introduction to Fuel Cells Read chapter Read first chapter

Solid Oxide Fuel Cell Components

Interfacial Compatibility of SOFC Glass Seals

Author: Gurbinder Kaur

Publisher: Springer International Publishing

Part of: Springer Professional "Wirtschaft+Technik" , Springer Professional "Technik"

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About this book

This book examines the various interfacial reactions that take place when glass seals come into contact with components of SOFCs in reducing and oxidizing conditions. In developing an understanding of the structure and function of SOFCs, interfacial compatibility is an imperative criterion. This book addresses the technical challenges of developing sealants to avoid leakage losses at high operating temperatures, which are profoundly impactful to the efficiency of the fuel cell. This resource is important for anyone working with or studying fuel cell design and development, and is a pivotal source of cutting-edge information for research groups actively engaged in developing hermetic and stable seals which show minimum interfacial chemical reaction with interconnect and electrolyte.

Table of Contents

Frontmatter
Chapter 1. Introduction to Fuel Cells
Abstract
With the increasing needs of electricity and power, fuel cells have emerged as a much needed alternative source of energy. Fuel cells possess zero noise pollution, and high efficiency as well as low emissions. Fuel cells are excellent candidates for stationary and mobile applications.
Gurbinder Kaur
Chapter 2. Cell Voltages, Polarisations and Performances
Abstract
The fuel cell works under defined conditions such as gas variables, temperature, etc. The operating conditions determine the efficiency of fuel cells and hence require rigorous understanding. Behind the operation of every fuel cell, there are series of thermodynamic and chemical equations that should be well understood. In this chapter, we determine the performance, efficiency and then losses of the fuel cell. The open-circuit voltage (OCV) of a fuel cell is also taken into consideration along with various factors including pressure, temperature, fuel constituents and concentration, etc.
Gurbinder Kaur
Chapter 3. SOFC Technology: Its Working and Components
Abstract
Till now, we have discussed all other types of fuel cells, i.e., their components, performance and applications. In this chapter, the prime focus is on the solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) technology its working principle, components and configurations. Baur and Preis (1937) presented the concept of large-scale SOFC for stationary applications. The tubular design of SOFC technology developed by Siemens Westinghouse is running successfully, whereas the planar design has also achieved higher volumetric power densities. The following sections deal with the basics of SOFC technology followed by the most commonly used designs.
Gurbinder Kaur
Chapter 4. Thermodynamics, Performance, and Configurations of SOFC
Abstract
Till now, we have discussed the basic concepts of SOFC technology and the components used. As SOFC converts chemical energy directly into electricity without irreversible oxidation, we can calculate reversible work at equilibrium for the reversible reaction by giving thermodynamic treatment in terms of free enthalpy of reaction between fuel and the oxidant. This process involves the reversible transfer of heat to the surroundings.
Gurbinder Kaur
Chapter 5. Sealing Concepts: Glasses as Sealants
Abstract
With the ever-increasing needs of energy, fuel cells have emerged as tantalising alternatives due to their high efficiency (higher than diesel combustion engines and gas turbines), low maintenance, and ability directly to convert chemical energy into electrical energy via an electrochemical reaction. The solid oxide fuel cell is unique as it is fabricated entirely from the solid components, which eradicates any possibility of liquid corrosion and hence performance degradation.
Gurbinder Kaur
Chapter 6. Interfacial Compatibility of Glasses and Interconnects
Abstract
We have studied about compressive, compliant and rigid seals in the previous chapter. Compliant seals do not bond with the components of the solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) leading to hydrogen embrittlement, whereas compressive seals require applied load. Rigid seals like glass/glass ceramics, especially alkaline earth containing, are the preferred sealant materials because they can sustain in stringent operating conditions of the SOFCs.
Gurbinder Kaur
Chapter 7. Mixed Alkaline/Composite Glasses and Coated Interconnects
Abstract
As seen in Chap. 6, the interaction of seal glass with metallic interconnect is much more severe due to chromate formations. The current chapter is a continuation of Chap. 6, which focuses on the chemical compatibility of glass/glass–ceramic seals with mixed alkaline earth glasses. In addition, the spinel-coated interconnects and their interaction with glasses have been discussed.
Gurbinder Kaur
Chapter 8. Interaction of Glass Seals/Electrodes and Electrolytes
Abstract
SOFC contains solid electrolyte, which reduces any material corrosion problems along with the increased portable applications. A good/ideal SOFC electrolyte has high ionic conduction, no electronic conduction, good mechanical properties, and stability in reducing as well as oxidising atmospheres. The compatibility electrolytes with the adjoining components of SOFC play a key role in determining the cell efficiency. Hence, research is being pursued for fabricating the electrolytes which can be used for low temperature–intermediate temperature applications. High temperature SOFC enhances the fuel flexibility, whereas low temperature SOFC relaxes stringent material requirements. This chapter focuses around the compatibility of different electrolytes with the sealants glasses and electrolytes.
Gurbinder Kaur
Chapter 9. Fuel Cell Status
Abstract
Fuel cell developers and manufacturers are focusing on limiting the cost of materials and manufacturing of their systems; their biggest goal is addressing issues of system design and construction. Although fuel cells promise green technology compared with other technologies, most fuel cell-based systems face tough commercial competition. These competitors are in the most advanced stage on the market. In the automobile sector, the internal combustion engine is a piece of highly engineered and evolved technology, which is of relatively low cost compared to current fuel cell systems. In the stationary power sector, heavy duty vehicles running on gas or steam turbine technology can deliver electricity at lower cost than most fuel cell systems. The commercial viability of the fuel cell depends on its ability to supply power at a cost similar to its competing technologies.
Vishal Kumar
Backmatter
Metadata
Title
Solid Oxide Fuel Cell Components
Author
Gurbinder Kaur
Copyright Year
2016
Electronic ISBN
978-3-319-25598-9
Print ISBN
978-3-319-25596-5
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-25598-9