Compatibility and reactivity between materials in an innovative dual membrane fuel-cell (IDEAL-Cell) design

The IDEAL-Cell project aims at developing an innovative and competitive concept for fuel cell operating between 600-700°C. It is based on the junction between a PCFC anode/electrolyte part and a SOFC electrolyte/cathode, through a mixed porous ceramic membrane. Cathode materials are: La 0.60Sr0.40CoO3-δ (LSCF40) or La 0.60Sr0.40Co0.20Fe0.80O 3-δ (LSCF48); electrolyte materials are: Ce 0.85Y0.15O2-δ (YDC15) and BaCe 0.85Y0.15O3-δ (BCY15). Ni-BCY15 cermet is the anode material. The central membrane is made of BCY15-YDC15 mixture. Good compatibility was observed at electrode/electrolyte cathode interface after long term ageing (20 h/1100°C following by 500 h/700°C) and no new phase was detected. Concerning the dual membrane BCY15-YDC15, a good adhesion was obtained between these two electrolyte materials. Finally, reactivity between LSCF40/48 and Crofer 22 APU (selected as first generation interconnect material) was studied in oxidizing atmosphere (1 h/1000°C following by 200 h/700°C). SrCrO4 formation was observed due to the diffusion of Cr and reaction with Sr from the cathode material.