Abstract: Hydrogen generating method and apparatus. The apparatus comprises a mixed phase protonic-electron conducting cermet membrane (2), wherein said membrane is coated with porous metal or composite catalyst (1) effective to decompose hydro-carbon and water reactants into a hydrogen-rich syngas at elevated temperature and pressure. The hydrogen ions are continuously withdrawn in situ by diffusing them through the mixed phase conducting cermet membrane (2) to the second membrane side where the hydrogen ions can be reconstituted into molecular hydrogen with a supply of electrons. The method favorably shifts the equilibrium of steam reforming and water gas shift reaction by use a single stage, high efficiency and high purity membrane reactor.

Abstract: A method of fabricating a high density thin component which can be used in an electrochemical converter comprises tape casting a material to form a tape followed by hot pressing of the tape to provide additional densification of the material. A plurality of tapes may be laminated together prior to hot pressing to provide a thicker structure or a composite structure. The materials used to produce the component may include silicon carbide, SiC, high chromium alloys, chromium iron alloys, (Cr-5 wt % Fe-1 wt % Y2O3) and chromium magnesium alloys (Cr-5 wt % Ni-1 wt % MgO). The fabrication method produces a high density component, including the application in an electrochemical converter, having a thickness of less than about 0.03 inches.