Novel surface engineered metallic material for solid oxide fuel cell interconnect

This concept deals with the development of a surface engineered, lower cost, metallic material to replace more expensive ceramic interconnects in solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) with operating temperatures in the 600 – 900 °C range. The target/candidate alloy is SS 430 (UNS S43000). This is a ferritic stainless steel with favorable properties to serve as an effective interconnect including a compatible thermal expansion with respect to the currently used electrode materials. However, one of the issues that needs to be overcome in utilizing UNS S43000 is the formation of a chromium oxide scale that lowers the electrical conductivity of this material. Moreover, reactions with moisture in the air can create volatile oxides that can poison the cathode. These phenomena can reduce the efficiency and lifespan of the fuel cell. In our innovation, we have developed a novel surface modification approach to overcome these issues in the SS 430 material. This presentation will discuss the problem currently encountered, present a potential solution, and outline the present state of development.