SOFC Module Material Development at Fuel Cell Energy

FuelCell Energy (FCE) is engaged in the development of Solid Oxide Fuel Cell (SOFC) power plants under DOE's Solid State Conversion Alliance (SECA) Coal-Based Program. The ultimate goal of the project is to develop Multi-MW SOFC power plants suitable for integration with coal gasifiers and cable of capturing >90% of carbon in coal syngas. FCE is currently utilizing the SOFC stacks developed by Versa Power Systems (VPS) as building blocks for development of the sub-MW and MW scale fuel cell modules. The design of an SOFC stack module is comprised of an assembly of stack blocks to provide targeted dc power. Advanced materials are being developed for gas seals between stacks, mechanical and electrical connections of stack blocks, and thermal as well as electrical insulation within modules. This paper is a review of the progress in development of conducting module gasket (CMG), non-conducting gasket (PH) and electrical contacting paste materials.