Designer Zirconias for Solid Oxide Fuel Cells

MEL Chemicals have developed a range of high purity, fully stabilized yttria zirconia powders for use as electrolytes and anodes in Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (SOFC´s).

MEL Chemicals have the ability to alter the properties of zirconium oxides in respect of dopant type/composition, purity, particle size and surface area. Our commitment to research and the environment has led to the development of our yttria zirconia powders for solid oxide fuel cells.

Yttria zirconia powders work well as both electrolyte and anode support materials in fuel cells. In both cases high purity is required to increase conductivity via reduction of glassy phase between grains of yttria zirconia. High yttria content ensures good phase stability at the high operating temperatures of the cells.

To perform well as an electrolyte a dense microstructure is required. MEL Chemicals have developed a range of yttria zirconia powders with sub micron particle size. The high sintering activity of these powders ensures a gas impermeable electrolyte at temperatures around 1450 ºC.

The anode must have a porous structure to allow efficient fuel gas glow to the reaction sites at the anode/electrolyte/fuel boundary, yet must be dense enough to provide satisfactory electrical conduction. MEL Chemicals have developed coarser yttria zirconia powders for the anode support material.

For further information about our yttria zirconia products please refer to our Product List or Contact Us.