Application of Ceramic Technology for Cost Effective Manufacturing of Small Fuel Cell Systems

摘要

Small SOFC (solid oxide fuel cell) and PEM (polymer electrolyte membrane) fuel cell systems have reached a promising level of maturity. We report on development of different ceramic technologies and materials that allow for cost effective fabrication of components such as robust electrochemical MEA's (membrane electrode assemblies), glass seals and contact interlayers. Operating experiences of SOFC stacks manufactured with these components are briefly discussed. For the manufacturing of both fuel cell types we especially emphasize the use of thick film, hybrid and multilayer ceramic technology. First results on fully functional PEM micro fuel cell systems manufactured by low temperature cofired ceramic (LTCC) technology are presented.