Solid Oxide Electrolysis Visualization Cell
Problem statement
In today’s world, the search for clean yet efficient energy sources is of paramount importance, guiding us toward a greener planet in the fight against climate change. A prominent prospect for the creation of green and efficient energy is found in hydrogen production. Solid Oxide Electrolysis Cells (SOECs) are among one of the most promising methods of hydrogen creation. However, a significant challenge associated with the use of SOECs is the degradation of the anode’s molecules over extended use, attributed largely to the migration of nickel particles during electrolysis. Ideally, these cells should last forever and maintain perfect efficiency, yet debilitation of SOECs prevents realization of this standard. It is generally not understood what the controlling factor is that causes such nickel migration, as there are multiple, heavily- correlated, variables that are at play. Degradation factors include: temperature, voltage, current gradients along with material properties and geometry of the cell. Efforts to comprehend the fundamental causes of this nickel migration have proven inadequate in the past, primarily because prior approaches largely relied on trial-and-error analysis and lacked the capability to independently measure the pivotal variables essential for uncovering the deeper correlations driving this phenomenon. In creating our own SOEC visualization device, we aim to first understand the governing mechanisms which cause nickel particles to move by controlling the aforementioned degradation factors. In developing this understanding, we can then approach the need for improved SOEC design. Gaining an understanding of the factors contributing to SOEC decline will enable our team to pinpoint the variable that needs control, which will allow others to run SOECs at higher efficiencies. Enhancing hydrogen production processes is crucial when considering our problem within the context of global climate change, given that SOECs offer improved energy conversion efficiency and a reduced environmental footprint [1]. Climate change poses a grave threat to the well-being of future generations, stirring profound concerns for the welfare and safety of our future world, compelling us to take urgent action to mitigate its potentially devastating consequences.
[1] Z. Jiao and N. Shikazono, ‘In operando optical study of active three phase boundary of nickel-yttria stabilized zirconia solid-oxide fuel cell anode under polarization,’ Journal of Power Sources, vol. 396, pp. 119-123, 2018, doi: 10.1016/j.jpowsour.2018.06.001
Team members
Alex Feucht – leader
Grant Austin – communicator
Zhengxiang Tang – accountant
Brooks Amiot – admin
Client
Eric Kazyak
Mechanical Engineering Department