Research activities in the Ceramic Electrochemistry Group at Argonne are focused on the development of ceramic-based electrochemical devices and components, such as Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (SOFC) and High Temperature Steam Electrolyzers (HTSE). This extends to materials synthesis, fabrication and characterization.

As part of the Solid State Energy Conversion Alliance (SECA) Core Technology Program, the goal of this research is the development of solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) modules that can generate electricity from coal-derived fuels.

Argonne has a long history in SOFC development and has contributed to the development of SOFC cathodes, seals, bipolar plate materials and mitigation of chromium cathode interactions. Activities in 2008 include:

Mixed perovskite cathodes
Hollow fiber seals.

Argonne will also work with Carnegie Mellon University on a new activity to characterize the surface of various cathode materials using in-situ x-ray scattering, EXAFS and XANES at Argonne's Advanced Photon Source.

High temperature steam electrolysis is a high-efficiency process that generates hydrogen fuel for fuel cell vehicles by splitting water molecules using electricity and heat from an advanced nuclear power plant. The HTSE is identical to solid oxide fuel cell designs, but operates with a reverse current flow. This energy efficient process is a leading contender for producing hydrogen without using fossil fuel feed stock. As part of the Nuclear Hydrogen Initiative, Argonne is identifying degradation mechanisms in the steam electrolyzer to increase stack lifetime. This lowers capital equipment costs and ultimately the pump price of hydrogen fuel.

April 2008