Functionalization of Solid Oxide Cells operating at intermediate temperatures

Currently, the society is assisting in a transition from centralised power generation to distributed power generation [1, 2]. This transition is necessary for various reasons that essentially reside on some fundamental points: 1) the current electric lines can not withstand the energy demand of an increasing number of energy-intensive vehicles, especially for mobility [3]; 2) the ever-increasing availability of small electric generators has created a huge number of small electricity producers and on-site use becomes more advantageous [4]; 3) technology-concerning the production and use of energy is particularly efficient for small sizes [5]. In this scenario, the development of energy conversion devices such as solid oxide fuel cells (SOFC) and solid oxide electrolysis cells (SOEC) can play a key role [6, 7]. Solid oxide cells (SOC) are electrochemical devices capable of converting chemical energy into electrical energy when used as SOFCs and vice versa when operated as SOECs. The same cell can be used in both modes allowing the production of electricity or the storage of energy, depending on the grid demand. The current problem lies in the fact that such devices cannot be considered sufficiently mature because not enough time has passed from their conceptualisation to their demonstration for real uses. Therefore, we are assisting to a proliferation of concepts that, referring to accelerated tests, get a try of simulating to their perspectives in a relevant environment. On the basis of these considerations, this communication reports a simple solution that can improve the flexibility in the use of fuels (SOFC) and the convenience of direct methane production (SOEC) of commercial cells.