3D imaging and quantification of interfaces in SOFC anodes

Solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) are functional electrochemical conversion devices whose performance is strongly dependent on electrode microstructure. Both the performance and lifetime of these electrochemical devices can be considerably enhanced by the ability to design better electrodes. Data acquired from high resolution 3D imaging techniques were used in the quantification of two electrode structures of different compositions. The quantified nickel-based anode data through the analysis of particle sizes with their metal–metal and ceramic–ceramic neck sizes, metal–ceramic interface sizes, volume fractions, and triple-phase boundary densities, demonstrate it is possible to understand how microstructure contributes to differences observed in electrochemical and mechanical performance; facilitating optimisation of electrode micro/nano structure towards improved performance. In doing so, new insights are gained that could be used to develop better electrodes.