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Highly Textured Composite Seals for SOFC Applications--NexTech Materials, Ltd., 720-I Lakeview Plaza Boulevard, Worthington, OH 43085; 614-842-6606
Dr. Matthew M. Seabaugh, Principal Investigator, seacbaugh@nextechmaterials.com
Mr. William J. Dawson, Business Official, dawson@nextechmaterials.com
DOE Grant No. DE-FG02-02ER83528
Amount: $100,000
A major obstacle to the commercialization of planar solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) is the lack of sealing materials that are chemically and mechanically robust. Seals must withstand both the oxidizing and reducing atmospheres and the thermal cycling that accompany SOFC operation, while remaining both compliant enough to bond well at interfaces and rigid enough to resist creep during use. This project will develop novel composite seals with specially controlled microstructures to effectively seal SOFCs operating at temperatures between 600 and 1000°C. In Phase I, new SOFC seal materials, with controlled microstructure, will be synthesized and evaluated by property testing. The seal materials will be tailored to meet sealing requirements and tested at SOFC operating conditions.
Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: Commercial applications include residential power and heat, remote power generators, military power supplies, auxiliary power units for transportation, and stationary power.