PRECISION COMBUSTION, INC. — Department of Defense SBIR Phase I: A19-010

Description

Precision Combustion, Inc. (PCI) is proposing a novel metal-supported solid oxide fuel cell (MS-SOFC) and interconnect design with internal reforming. The innovation consists of porous metal supported cells (<1 mm thick) that can be laser welded for gas-tight repeat unit fabrication, providing improved tolerance against thermal cycling, vibrations, and re-oxidation. The metal support is fabricated via commercially sourced powder metallurgy. Ultra-thin film electrode and electrolyte layers are applied via coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) matched layering techniques. A novel jet vapor deposition (JVD) or sputtering layering approach for more uniform, thin, and defect-free coating will be examined. PCI’s Microlith-based internal reforming enables uniform temperature distribution, higher fuel utilization, and avoids carbon formation. An open cathode design diminishes the criticality of the sealant. These innovations result in a ruggedized design with improved durability, power density, and efficiency. The robust metal supported cells can overcome the thermal cycling and fast heat-up limitations of ceramic SOFC’s requiring glass seals on both sides of the interconnects, enabling faster startup and longer cycle life.