Electrolyte-supported solid oxide electrochemical cells for versatile operations

Abstract

Electrolyte-supported solid oxide electrochemical cells (SOCs) offer advantages in terms of easier fabrication and enhanced mechanical properties, but achieving high performance and multifunctionality remains challenging. In this study, we develop high-performance and versatile electrolyte-supported SOCs using La0.9Sr0.1Ga0.8Mg0.2O3-δ (LSGM) electrolyte materials through microstructural engineering of Sr2Fe1.5Mo0.5O6-δ (SFM)-based fuel electrodes. We evaluate the cells for power generation, hydrogen production, and carbon dioxide reduction, showcasing the diverse potential of various fuel electrode configurations. Among these, the impregnated SFM@LSGM electrode achieves the best overall performance, with a maximum power density of 739 mW cm−2 in fuel-cell mode, a current density of −0.81 A cm−2 at 1.3 V during steam electrolysis, and an unprecedented current density of −1.92 A cm−2 at 1.5 V in CO₂ electrolysis. Furthermore, it exhibits satisfactory stability across all operational modes. These findings provide valuable insights into the design of versatile electrolyte-supported SOCs and open new possibilities for their flexible applications in future low-carbon energy systems.