Detailed Characteristic Comparison between PEN of Planar SOFC Prepared by APS and SPS

Abstract

On the help of the atmosphere plasma spraying (APS) and suspension plasma spraying (SPS) conditions optimized previously, APS and SPS were both introduced to prepare the PEN (Positive- Electrolyte-Negative) of planar solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs). Then the microstructure and material components of the PEN cells were analyzed. Experimental results show that the electrolyte layer fabricated by SPS represents higher densification, thinner thickness and more homogeneous component distribution than that manufactured by APS, and meets the microstructure and density requirements of SOFC. The porosities of cathode and anode layers by APS and SPS reached 25%-35%. Therefore, the SPS could be a better and suitable approach to fabricate PENs of SOFC stacks, and effectively improve the conductivity of electrodes.