Materials and technologies for SOFC-components

Solid oxide fuel cells are a forward looking technology for a highly efficient, environmental friendly power generation. A SOFC is a multilayer structure consisting of ceramic and metallic materials with different electrical transport properties. All components have to show a well adjusted thermal expansion behavior, chemical compatibility of material interfaces and chemical stability in the prevailing atmospheres. The performance of SOFC single cells is not only determined by intrinsic material properties. There is a significant influence due to the fabrication technology respectively the microstructure at the electrode/electrolyte-interfaces. The performance of cells can only be improved by the application of elevated materials using appropriate technologies. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.