SOFC Anode Materials and Performance

The fuel processing operation of an SOFC critically depends on the anode structure and composition, since the electrochemical reaction can only take place at the three-phase boundary. If there is a breakdown in connectivity in any one of the three phases, the reaction cannot take place. Besides, if ions from the electrolyte cannot reach the reaction site, if the gas-phase fuel molecules cannot reach the reaction site, or if electrons cannot be removed from the reaction site, this site cannot contribute to the performance of the cell [5], 

The materials used for the anode construction have to be stable in the reducing atmosphere prevailing in the anode. Besides, these materials ought to be electronically conducting, and, finally, must have enough porosity to permit the diffusion [66,135,137]. In this region, the oxidation reaction takes place. 

The Physical Chemistry of Materials Energy and Environmental Applications 

Perovskite materials show outstanding thermal and mechanical stability at temperatures typical for the performance of SOFCs in contrast with the standard Ni/YSZ cermet, where nickel sintering and agglomeration are latent risks [144], 

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