Tuning of metal–electrolyte interface structure via electrolyte doping and its role on carbon deposition during internal CH4 reforming in solid oxide fuel cells
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: The internal reforming and carbon deposition of Ni/ScSZ, Ni/YSZ, and Ni/LaYSZ anodes for solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) and the effect of electrolyte doping on the metal–electrolyte interface structure were investigated in a CH 4 /H 2 O environment. Although the SOFC performance of Ni/LaYSZ was almost identical to that of Ni/YSZ, the La-doped anode showed superior carbon deposition tolerance to that of Ni/ScSZ and Ni/YSZ. Density functional theory calculations on C 2 H 2 formation were performed to examine the carbon deposition tolerance. Electrolyte doping allows controlling the work of adhesion between the Ni metal and the electrolyte ( X SZ, X = Y, Sc, La), which is in accord with C 2 H 2 stability on Ni/XSZ. Specifically, owing to its large size, the La dopant decreased the metal–electrolyte interface stability after C 2 H 2 formation on Ni/XSZ, leading to lower C 2 H 2 stability relative to Ni/YSZ and Ni/ScSZ. This low C 2 H 2 stability can explain the carbon deposition tolerance of Ni/LaYSZ. • Carbon deposition of Ni/ScSZ, Ni/YSZ, and Ni/LaYSZ anodes were studied in SOFC. • La-doped anode showed superior carbon deposition tolerance. • La dopant decreased the metal–electrolyte interface stability after C 2 H 2 formation. • The lower C 2 H 2 stability in Ni/LaYSZ accounts for carbon deposition tolerance.
Authors: Haruki Hirai, Hirotatsu Watanabe
Institution: Ritsumeikan University
Language: English
Subfield: Materials Chemistry
Field: Materials Science
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $3,730
OpenAlex ID: W7129019057