Nanoscale electrolytes

Description
The ceramic materials used for high-temperature solid oxide fuel cells lend themselves to micro and nano fabrication. The electrochemical mechanisms and electrical properties are being quantitatively studied in rationally designed structures, and fuel cell operation is being optimized. Lower-temperature operation enabled by nanoscale electrolytes greatly increases the range of possible materials.

Implications
Microfabricated fuel cells may enable a number of applications in portable and stationary power supplies, operating on hydrogen or hydrocarbons such as natural gas.

Research Group Contacts
Prof. Mark S. Miller, Electrical & Computer Engineering and Materials Science & Engineering Depts.

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