Molten carbonate fuel cells durability

Molten carbonate fuel cells (MCFCs) use an electrolyte composed of a molten carbonate salt mixture suspended in a porous, chemically inert ceramic lithium aluminum oxide (I.iAIO,) matrix. MCFCs are large and operate at very high temperatures (1,200°F). Because they use a corrosive electrolyte, their durability is limited. 

The most important features associated with fuel cell technologies are energy conversion efficiency, durability (or life time), and cost. These are common characteristic features among various fuel cells such as phosphoric acid fuel cells (PAFC), molten carbonate fuel cells (MCFC), polymer electrolyte fuel cells (PEFC), and solid oxide fuel cells (SOFC). For comparison among fuel cells, applications in... 

Frey H, Kessler A, Munch W, Edel M, Nerlich V (2009) Chapter 68 Field experience with molten carbonate fuel cells (MCFCs) and solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) with an emphasis on degradation. In Vielstich W, Yokokawa H, Gasteiger HA (eds) Handbook of fuel cells fundamental technology and applications, vol 6. Advanced in electrocatalysis, materials, diagnostics and durability part 2. Wiley, Chichester, pp 992-1001... 

There are some other fuel cells, such as phosphoric acid (PAFC) or molten carbonate (MCFC) [4], that are commercially available but will probably not find significant implementation due to high cost and durability issues. 

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