Research and Development of SOFC and SOEC at DLR: from Next Generation Cells to Efficient and Effective Systems

Abstract

Reducing emission of greenhouses gases represents a huge societal challenge, Among the portfolio of technologies, High Temperature Solid Oxide Cells (SOC) present key advantages in term of efficiency to be used either for power generation or energy storage. From cells to system, research activities at German Aerospace Center activities are covering the whole technological chain. Over the last decades continuous improvement in materials, architecture and manufacturing processes have been achieved to improve performance durability and lifetime. The advanced concept of a metal-supported SOC where the functional ceramic layers are deposited onto a mechanically stable porous metal support is the most advanced approach for mobile application as auxiliary power units (APU). This application requires low volume, limited weight and improved ability for rapid start-up and thermal cycling. At DLR, functional layers are consecutively deposited by plasma spray technology onto a metal substrate. Recently, further research efforts have started to develop a metal-supported cell with thin-film electrolyte applied through PVD technology preparing the next generation of SOCs. The German Aerospace Center (DLR) aims to build and operate a hybrid power plant with an electrical power output of 30 kW which can be operated at higher efficiency than conventional plants. This hybrid power plants consists of a gas turbine coupled with solid oxide fuel cells. Theoretical studies suggest electrical efficiencies of up to 70%. The system concept and design of the power plant have been finalized and the specification of all major system components has been carried out. Currently, different system components are being purchased and tested. The presentation provides first an overview of the metal-supported cell development including materials aspects, stack technology and electrochemical performance. In a second part, an overview of the current status of the project of hybrid power plant will be given, illustrating the general concept of the power plant. Important specifications characteristics and test results of the components will be presented.