Zirconia-Based Electrolyte Stability in Direct-Carbon Fuel Cells with Molten Sb Anodes

Direct carbon fuel cells (DCFC) that use zirconia-based electrolytes and molten Sb anodes have much promise for the efficient conversion of carbonaceous solid fuels into electricity. However, etching of the electrolyte, and ultimately cell failure, has been observed during operation. In this study, we have investigated this etching phenomenon as a function of the electrolyte composition and cell operating conditions and demonstrated that it is...