Understanding the Mechanical Strength of Protonic Ceramic Electrochemical Cells

Abstract

Protonic ceramic electrochemical cells (PCECs) hold the promise for hydrogen production as well as flexible chemical manufacturing by in-situ hydrogen/proton use at intermediate temperatures (400-600oC). As the technology is emerging and fast growing, the manufacturing of PCECs in larger scales, such as 5×5 cm2 and 10×10 cm2, is urgent and necessary for bridging the academic research and the industry application. However, it has been concerned about the mechanical properties of PCECs compared with its counterpart, oxygen-ion conductor based electrochemical cells (OCECs), especially when it is required to be assembled for the stack. Herein, we investigate the mechanical properties of PCECs with various techniques at different scales and under operating conditions. Comparative study is conducted between PCEC and OCEC with corresponding recommendations in both fabrication and operation factors to achieve reliable, repeatable, and durable PCECs for sustainable energy utilization and generation.