Abstract: A solid oxide electrochemical device having a laminar composite electrode with improved electrochemical and mechanical performance, the laminar composite electrode comprising a porous support electrode layer, a thin and patterned structure layer, and a thin and dense electrolyte layer and methods for making.

Abstract: A method and related bonding compositions for use in assembling a solid oxide fuel cell (“SOFC”) stack having thermally and chemically stable and electrically conductive bonds between alternating fuel cells and interconnect components in the stack. The improved method and materials allow for the assembly of solid oxide fuel cells having a stronger and more reliable bond with good electrical contact in situ between the SOFC interconnect layers (plates) and the electrodes. The bonding materials and method according to the invention provide good electrical performance while maintaining the mechanical and electrical integrity of SOFC stacks without requiring excessive mechanical compression of the stack as exemplified by prior art systems.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a multi-layered and multifunctional cathode in solid oxide fuel cells having high conductivity, high catalytic activity, minimized coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) mismatch, excellent compatibility to other portions of the fuel cell, and reduced temperature operation. The cathode comprises a conductive layer, a catalyst layer and a graded composition layer. The conductive layer has a first density, the catalyst layer has a second density that is less than the first density, and the graded composition layer is characterized by a graded electronic conductivity and a graded ionic conductivity.

Abstract: A solid oxide fuel cell comprises an anode, a cathode opposite to the anode, and an electrolyte between the anode and cathode. The electrolyte includes a barrier layer that prevents chemical interactions between the electrolyte and the anode, in addition to preventing elemental losses from the electrolyte. The electrolyte further includes a strengthening layer having alternating layer elements that provide fracture resistance to the electrolyte.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a multi-layered and multifunctional cathode in solid oxide fuel cells having high conductivity, high catalytic activity, minimized coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) mismatch, excellent compatibility to other portions of the fuel cell, and reduced temperature operation. The cathode comprises a conductive layer, a catalyst layer and a graded composition layer. The conductive layer has a first density, the catalyst layer has a second density that is less than the first density, and the graded composition layer is characterized by a graded electronic conductivity and a graded ionic conductivity.

Abstract: A radial planar fuel cell stack comprises an internal manifold having a first interior cavity and a second interior cavity. A plurality of single cells having an anode layer, a cathode layer, and an electrolyte layer therebetween are disposed about the manifold. A manifold bracket operatively fixes the manifold to at least one of the single cells. The manifold bracket describes a channel in communication with at least one of the first and second interior cavities. A porous element is disposed in the channel and ensures uniform distribution of gases over 360°.

Abstract: A sealant for a solid oxide fuel cell comprises a glass material that acts as a matrix, with the glass material being present between about 40 to 90 wt. %. A gap-filler material is also in the sealant and selected from the group consisting of a metal material and a ceramic material, with the gap-filler material being present between about 10 to 60 wt. %. The sealant can seal a gap as large as about 3 mm.