Low power solid oxide fuel cells with new electrolytes

Within the framework of a project between the University of Magdeburg and the Electrotechnical Institute of Wroclaw, material compositions for electrodes and electrolytes which make possible fuel cell operation at a temperature of approxomately 600°C and, moreover, have low production costs will be developed. The exploration of new electrolytes as well as the prototyping of test cells is being undertaken by the Electrotechnical Institute. The test as well as the investigations of the performance of the cells is made in a specially developed testing procedure and test bench. During the installation and enlargement of a PEM-fuel cell test bench at the University of Magdeburg extensive experience was gained. These experiences can now be used for the design of a small SOFC-test bench. The paper gives an overview on the development of the test bench, the electrolytes and initial results.