Effective post-processing strategies of inkjet-printed ceramic cathodes for improved fuel cell performance

Abstract

The reluctant effectiveness of the post-processing strategies of the inkjet-printed ceramic components in solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) limits the realization of high-power density. We herein report the detailed study on the influences of post-processing strategies including drying and sintering of inkjet-printed cathode layers on their final microstructural, mechanical and electrochemical properties. Results showed that the maximum power density at 0.7V achieved through furnace drying was 2.3 times that of the freeze-dried one, which was due to the high effective porosity of the inkjet-printed layer. The furnace-dried cell was further found to have better mechanical strength (H=2.14GPa, E=93.56GPa). With increased sintering temperature, the power density first increased and then decreased, contrary to its ohmic resistance and polarization resistance. The highest power density of 1084.70 mW cm−2 was reached when sintered at 900°C. This study offers effective post-processing strategies of drying and sintering for the inkjet-printed SOFC components for higher energy conversion efficiency.