Ceramic Material Combination for an Anode of a High-Temperature Fuel Cell

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This patent describes a new ceramic material combination for the anode of high-temperature fuel cells, such as solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs). The invention uses a porous ceramic structure composed of two phases: one is a lanthanoid-substituted strontium titanate (Sr1-xLnxTiO3, where Ln is Y or certain rare earths) as the electronically conducting phase, and the other is yttria- or scandia-stabilized zirconium dioxide (YSZ or ScSZ) as the ionically conducting phase. These phases are combined in such proportions that their expansion behaviors compensate each other during gas atmosphere changes, improving the dimensional and redox stability. Additionally, a small amount of a metallic catalyst (such as nickel, cobalt, copper, palladium, platinum, gold, or ruthenium) is finely distributed on the surface to enhance catalytic activity without compromising structural stability.

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• High-temperature solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) as clean energy sources for stationary power generation or distributed energy systems.
• Electrolyzers operating at elevated temperatures for hydrogen production.
• Auxiliary power units (APUs) using SOFCs in vehicles (e.g., trucks, trains, ships) where fuel flexibility and reliability are needed.
• Replacement or upgrade of anode material in existing SOFC designs to improve redox and mechanical stability.
• Remote or off-grid power supplies where long-term durability and minimal maintenance are essential.

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• High mechanical and redox stability during repeated oxidation and reduction cycles, reducing the risk of structural damage or failure.
• Low and balanced dimensional change during switching between oxidizing and reducing gases, preventing cracks in the fuel cell structure.
• Improved compatibility with conventional electrolytes, minimizing adverse reactions at interfaces.
• Good electronic and ionic conductivity, ensuring efficient operation of the fuel cell anode.
• Significantly reduced catalyst (e.g., Ni) content decreases risks associated with large volume changes and agglomeration, improving lifespan and reliability.
• Fine distribution of catalyst particles increases the active surface area while maintaining the structural integrity of the ceramic network.
• Reduced health and environmental risks related to handling of nickel oxide during manufacturing.

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Patent Abstract

The invention relates to an anode for a high-temperature fuel cell having an anode substrate and/or a functional anode layer, comprising a porous ceramic structure having a first predominantly electron-conducting phase with the general empirical formula Sr1-xLnxTiO3 wherein Ln=Y, Gd to Lu and 0.03