Scientists from South Korea have developed a new method that significantly improves the performance of solid oxide fuel cells in just 4 minutes.
This innovation can significantly change the industry, providing more efficient use of fuels such as hydrogen, biogas and natural gas.
Solid oxide fuel cells are known for their high performance, but their efficiency is limited by the low reaction rate at the cathode. A team of chemists from the Korea Institute of Advanced Technology and Busan University has found a solution: they developed a process for applying a praseodymium oxide nanolayer to an LSM-YSZ composite electrode material. This catalyst significantly accelerates the redox reaction (OVR) at the cathode.
Tests have shown that TTE with this new coating at a temperature of 650 °C demonstrate an energy release density three times higher than without coating. The nanolayer deposition process takes place at room temperature and atmospheric pressure, without the need for complex equipment or chemical processes. It involves immersing the electrode in a solution with praseodymium ions and applying an electric current, which causes sediment to form on the surface of the electrode. After drying, the precipitate turns into a stable oxide, which actively contributes to OVR at high temperatures.
This simple and energy-efficient technology can significantly improve the efficiency of key chemical reactions, including in oil refining and the production of pharmacological preparations. The discovery of scientists can lead to significant improvements in various industrial processes.