Assessing co-electrolysis stability with metal-supported solid oxide cells under dynamic current conditions
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Solid oxide electrolysis cells are a promising technology for the sustainable conversion of electricity into syngas from H₂O and CO₂, enabling the production of low-carbon fuels in Power-to-X applications when coupled with renewable energy sources. Metal-supported cells (MSCs) combine enhanced mechanical robustness and lower material costs with performances similar to conventional ceramic cells. This study investigates the durability of an MSC, manufactured at DTU Energy, operated in co-electrolysis mode with dynamically changing current density, to simulate the integration with wind-solar power sources. The produced syngas composition, measured using a mass spectrometer and a micro-gas chromatograph, closely followed thermodynamic equilibrium, allowing precise control of the outlet H₂/CO ratio during operation under the examined conditions. Carbon deposition was investigated with a dedicated experiment and observed near the predicted thermodynamic threshold, suggesting good resistance of the studied MSC to coking. The 600-hour dynamic durability test was performed with current densities between -0.22 and -0.33 A/cm2, under safe operating conditions specifically selected to avoid carbon deposition and to target the desired syngas composition. The cell exhibited a limited degradation rate, with final values between 1-3 %/kh at 700°C. These results demonstrate the strong potential of metal-supported SOECs for efficient, durable, and renewable-driven syngas production.
Source: Journal of Power Sources
Language: English
Subfield: Materials Chemistry
Field: Materials Science
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $4,230
Award: G600177819
OpenAlex ID: W7140626453