Performance of the Micro-SOFC Module Using Submillimeter Tubular Cells

A micromodule, the size of 0.2 X 1 X 3 cm (-0.6 cm 3 ) was fabricated using three micro-solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) bundles which consist of anode-supported microtubular SOFCs of 0.8 mm diameter and porous cathode matrices. The module was designed to apply to small-sized power sources at a low operating temperature under 600°C. The open-circuit voltage of the module depended upon the operating temperatures, the lower for higher temperature due to the use of a ceria-based electrolyte. Maximum power outputs of the module were 0.5, 0.9, and 1.4 W at 450, 500, and 550°C operating temperatures, respectively, where the air was applied only by natural convection. As a result, the performance of the module turned out to be over 2 W per cm 3 at 550°C operating temperature. The results also showed a strong influence of the fuel flow rate; the higher rate led to an increased performance due to improved gas transport.

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