High power density tubular SOFC for portable application

The Alberta Research Council Inc. (ARC) is developing a design with a cost effective manufacturing process for a high volumetric power density (VPD) Micro Solid Oxide Tubular Fuel Cell for portable and transportable applications. This small diameter tubular fuel cell has a wall thickness in the micrometer range, which allows for low mass with high thermal shock resistance. The combination of these two characteristics, high thermal shock resistance and low thermal mass are the key in reducing start up and turn off time of these ceramic-based fuel cells. Another major advantage of μSOFC is a significant increase in the volumetric power density of the fuel cell devices. High volumetric power translates to smaller devices, which is vital for portable application.