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Advancements in Planar Proton-Conducting Electrochemical Cells through Thermal Stress Regulation

INNOVATION SPOTLIGHT

Enhanced thermal cycling tolerance and structural integrity, enabling scalable production of high-performance proton-conducting electrochemical cells for diverse clean energy applications.

Overview:

The quest for efficient and sustainable energy conversion technologies is more pressing than ever as the world transitions to a low-carbon economy. Proton-conducting ceramic electrochemical cells (PCECs) are at the forefront of this shift, offering a promising avenue for clean energy generation and storage. However, the scaling and commercialization of PCECs have been hindered by challenges such as deformation and micro-defects arising from conventional fabrication processes. These issues stem from the asymmetric distribution of thermal stresses, impacting the cells' performance and durability.

Description:

This invention introduces a novel fabrication strategy designed to overcome the limitations faced by current PCEC manufacturing techniques. The core of the technology lies in employing a symmetric electrolyte as a thermal expansion coefficient (TEC) buffer or counter layer during the half-cell fabrication process. This approach aims to compensate for the TEC mismatches between different cell components, addressing the root cause of mechanical stress build-up, deformation, and micro-defects.

Benefits:

• Improved Uniformity and Integrity: By balancing thermal stresses, the technology ensures a higher uniformity and structural integrity of PCECs, reducing the risk of performance degradation over time.


• Enhanced Thermal Cycling Tolerance: The use of a symmetric electrolyte layer significantly improves the cells' durability against thermal cycling, a critical factor for their long-term operation and reliability.


• Scalability: Demonstrated success in fabricating anode-supported PCECs with sizes up to 10×10 cm² paves the way for scalng up production without compromising on performance.

Applications:

• Electricity Generation: Utilization in power generation systems to provide clean and efficient energy.


• Hydrogen Production: Adoption in hydrogen production equipment, supporting the growth of the hydrogen economy.


• Fuel Cell Vehicles: Application in the transportation sector, particularly for fuel cell vehicles.


• Chemical and Materials Production: Use in the chemical industry for sustainable production of chemicals and materials.

Development Status: TRL 4

IP Status: Provisional Patent 63/602,818

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