Coupled Electrochemical–Mechanical Degradation Mechanisms of Solid Oxide Fuel Cells under Redox Conditions

作者：Jiaqi Yang, Qin Zhang, Bo An, Ke Wang, Dongxing Song, Huijuan Su, S.T. Tu · 发表于：ACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering · 年份：2025 · DOI：10.1021/acssuschemeng.5c09182 · 被引用次数：1 · 研究领域：Advancements in Solid Oxide Fuel Cells、Fuel Cells and Related Materials、Electrocatalysts for Energy Conversion

The instability of anode-supported solid oxide fuel cells (ASOFCs) during high-temperature reduction–oxidation (RedOx) cycling is a critical factor limiting long-term operation. In this study, the evolution of electrochemical and mechanical properties of ASOFCs under RedOx cycling was examined by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, small-punch testing, and nanoindentation. Microstructural analysis was further employed to elucidate the degradation mechanisms. Results showed that the peak power density decreased by nearly 70% after five cycles. Quantification of degradation contributions indicated that ohmic resistance accounted for 70% of total performance loss, followed by hindered H 2 transport in the anode. Mechanically, flexural strength declined by nearly half, with the largest reduction during early cycles, while the elastic modulus and hardness decreased by 25.6% and 50.69%, respectively. SEM and EDS revealed that Ni particle migration and agglomeration led to a nearly 4-fold increase in large particle-sized Ni clusters. Based on the driving role of Ni particle degradation in coupled electrochemical–mechanical processes, a theoretical model was developed to describe performance evolution. This work provides theoretical and experimental insights for extending ASOFC service life and improving engineering applicability.