Performance Evaluation of Microtubular Solid Oxide Fuel Cell Prototypes at a Laboratory Scale and Identification of Needs Related to Gas Sensors

Abstract

Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (SOFC’s) are devices for power generation, usually for stationary applications. Microtubular SOFC’s have been developed for portable applications. The present contribution includes a brief description of the fabrication and some results of the performance evaluation of microtubular SOFC’s (specifically for samples that are in the process of failing due to the formation of fractures in them or in the cement sealant) at a laboratory scale so that researchers who are developing sensors could improve their prototypes for this type of applications. During the evaluation, safety relies on gas sensors that detect fuel leaks. A low cost hydrogen gas detector—alarm system is also presented.

Keywords

• Solid Oxide Fuel Cells
• hydrogen
• gas sensors