PRIN 2017 - 2017FCFYHK_001 - ANTONINO ARICO' (DIT.AD002.126)

Thematic area

Engineering, ICT and technologies for energy and transportation

Project area

Structure responsible for the research project

Institute for advanced energy technologies "Nicola Giordano" (ITAE)

Project manager

ANTONINOSALVATORE ARICO
Phone number: 090624237
Email: arico@itae.cnr.it

Abstract

The objective of DIRECTBIOPOWER is to develop a new generation solid oxide fuel cell stack based on advanced ceramic materials for the direct utilization of biofuels to reduce the complexity of the balance-of-plant and produce electrical power and heat with high overall efficiency (~90 % CHP, >50% electrical efficiency). The SOFCs will be based on materials tailored to operate at intermediate temperatures (ceria-gallates or thin film YSZ electrolytes, enhanced perovskite cathodes). This will permit to reduce degradation issues while allowing the use of cheap ferritic steel for the interconnects thus reducing costs and increasing system reliability. The final goal is the demonstration of a kW-size SOFC system fed directly with partially de-sulphurised biofuels (bio-ethanol, glycerol, bio-gas) as a proof-of-concept of the process. The methodology mainly includes the synthesis of advanced exsolved perovskites for anode applications, improved electrolytes for operation at intermediate temperature (500-750 °C) and enhanced perovskite cathodes for the oxygen reduction.

Start date of activity

15/09/2019

Keywords

Materials engineering, Nanoparticles, Solid oxide fuel cells

Last update: 25/08/2025