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Water-based cathode inks for improved solid oxide fuel cells

Technology Benefits

Facilitation of the large scale commercial production of SOFCs Easier manufacture of potentially more efficient cells More environmentally friendly; reduces the use of volatile organic solvents in the working environment to conform with air quality regulations

Detailed Technology Description

Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (SOFCs) are a growing market with a strong industrial focus driven by environmentally friendly energy generation research. At present, various organic solvents are used for cathode inks; until now development of water-based cathode inks has been unsuccessful. Current methods use organic solvents such as acetone, iso-propanol, methyl ethyl ketone and ethanol. A water-based cathode ink offers several advantages as it is less volatile, this allows longer storage of the ink and allows dip-coating without surface drying. This water based system could also overcome the problems around handling solvents and potential environmental issues around using solvents Cells made with this new ink system, have outperformed previously-used acetone-based systems in laboratory conditions. Development of this technology may lead to easier manufacture of potentially better cells with decreased costs and increased availability. Commercial applications for power stacks include combined heat and power plants for homes and offices, stationary power generation and smaller mobile units for civil and military use.

Supplementary Information

Patent Number: GB201107672D0
Application Number: GB20117672A
Priority Date: 9 May 2011
Priority Number: GB201107672D0
Application Date: 9 May 2011
Publication Date: 22 Jun 2011
Assignee Applicant: Univ Birmingham
Title: Ink
Usefulness: Ink

Industry

Chemical/Material

Sub Category

Fuel Cell

*Abstract

Solid oxide fuels cells (SOFCs) potentially offer an efficient, fuel flexible, low emission and relatively low cost means of producing electricity. One of the most popular methods for producing the cathode of the current generation of fuel cells involves the use of organic solvent based inks. Inks used in the manufacture of solid oxide fuel cells have some problems in use. They can be volatile so have a short usage life due to evaporation; many of the solvents used also pose a risk to workers unless handled carefully. Furthermore dip coating is difficult with highly volatile inks as surface drying occurs too quickly.

*Principal Investigator

Name: Dr. Katie Howe

Department:

Country/Region

USA