Solid Oxide Fuel Cell
(Redirected from Solid Oxide Fuel Cells)
Contents
Basics
- A solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) is an electrochemical conversion device that produces electricity directly from oxidizing a fuel
- Fuel cells are characterized by their electrolyte material and, as the name implies, the SOFC has a solid oxide, or ceramic, electrolyte
- Advantages of this class of fuel cells include high efficiencies, long term stability, fuel flexibility, low emissions, and cost (cost is debatable, need more research on that bit?)
- The largest disadvantage is the high operating temperature which results in longer start up times and mechanical/chemical compatibility issues.
- The higher operating temperature make SOFCs suitable candidates for application with engines/power sources that reach a similar temperature, such as Internal Combustion Engines , especially if they use the same fuel such as CNG
COTS Options
WATT Fuel Cell
- A company making Propane and CNG fed SOFCs for Residential and RV Markets Primarily
- LIMITED availability now, probably more widespread in 2025; factories are being ramped up
RedHawk Energy Systems
- A company making SOFC generators which seem marketed at remote electronics in infrastructure such as Grade Crossings etc
Internal Links
- Fuel Cell
- Solid Oxide Electrolyzer Cell / Solid Oxide Electrolysis (Essentially a SOFC, but in reverse)
- Also see Reversible Fuel Cell
