FuelCell Energy (FCE) along with its development partners has been engaged in development of high Power Density SOFC generator in a cost-shared, DOE-sponsored program. The development effort is aimed at thin-film, planar cell technology capable of operating at lower (650-750 C) temperature. The initial target application is for stationary power using natural gas as fuel. High efficiency system design and component development is underway using FCE’s unique internal reforming technology developed for carbonate fuel cells. The internal reforming SOFC system eliminates the need for external equipment for hydrogen generation, while significantly improving overall system efficiency. The lower operating temperatures permit use of lower cost materials for the SOFC power plant and increase system durability.

Laboratory tests with single cells and multi-cell stacks have been performed with a variety of conditions for internal reforming of natural gas. Materials characterization and modeling tools are used to develop a stack design capable of operating at 300-500 mW/cm2 for 40,000 hour life. Results of technology development and materials considerations for cell, stack and system will be presented.