Enhanced performance of NiO–3YSZ planar anode-supported SOFC with an anode functional layer

In this study, the planar anode-supported solid oxide fuel cells with straight opening pores were prepared by phase inversion method and the laser ablation technique. The microstructure, thermal expansion behavior, porosity and bending strength of anodes with 3 mol% Y₂O₃ doped ZrO₂ (3YSZ) and 8 mol% Y₂O₃ doped ZrO₂ (8YSZ) were investigated. The bending strength of 144 MPa for NiO–3YSZ planar anode was achieved, which was two times higher than that of NiO–8YSZ substrate. To improve the electrochemical performance of NiO–3YSZ planar anode, an anode functional layer of NiO–8YSZ was introduced between NiO–3YSZ anode and electrolyte layer by spin-coating method. The maximum power density of single cell with NiO–3YSZ anode was improved from 365 to 598 mW cm⁻² at 800 °C.