Speaker
Description
Energy systems based on solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) and solid oxide electrolysis cells (SOECs) are among the most promising future technologies for sustainable clean energy supply and storage. SOFCs convert the chemical energy of a fuel into electrical energy with high efficiency and low emissions. A major advantage of SOFC technology is its fuel flexibility. SOFCs are capable of converting various fuels (natural gas, biogas, syngas, bio-ethanol, etc., in addition to pure hydrogen) directly into electrical energy. SOECs provide an efficient and sustainable means of storing electrical energy from volatile renewable sources. By reversing the SOFC principle, water is electrochemically split into the components oxygen and hydrogen using electricity, e.g. generated from wind energy, and thus electrical energy is stored in the form of chemical energy in the hydrogen. The switch from SOFC to SOEC mode (and vice versa) can be carried out at short notice, making it an extremely flexible system. In contrast to low-temperature electrolysis cells, SOECs are capable of electrolyzing carbon dioxide/water mixtures in addition to pure water (co-electrolysis) and converting them into synthesis gas (CO, H2) for the production of hydrocarbons, methanol, ammonia, etc. ("power-to-gas" concept) in a methanation reactor. SOECs thus contribute to a reduction of greenhouse gases.
In our research, we investigate fundamental relationships between material properties, morphology and electrochemistry of solid oxide cells with a focus on the air electrode and the air electrode-electrolyte interface. Together with our partners, competences in the field of material development, electrode and cell preparation, and electrochemical characterization, are bundled with detailed microstructural and chemical analyses. The goal is to develop a knowledge-based design approach for the next generation of solid oxide cells for sustainable and efficient energy storage and conversion.
| Speaker Country | Austria |
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