Solid Oxide Fuel Cells: Reactions

In SOFCs, due to the high temperature and solid electrode and solid electrolyte interface, the characteristics of the interface and electrode reactions in SOFCs are unique. In this chapter, we will start with the surface segregation of oxide electrodes as it is probably one of the most important factors influencing the O2 reduction reaction (ORR) on the cathodes. This will be followed by the introduction and discussion on the electrode reactions at the cathode and anode, interfacial reactions between electrode and electrolyte, and the poisoning and deposition of various contaminants on electrodes in SOFCs. The issues related to the cell configuration and specific electrochemical techniques in SOFCs will be addressed in Chap. 11.