Visual testing device and system for solid oxide fuel cell

Abstract

The invention provides a visual testing device and system for a solid oxide fuel cell, and relates to the field of solid oxide fuel cells. The visual testing device for the solid oxide fuel cell comprises a clamping mechanism which comprises two end plate assemblies, and each end plate assembly comprises a frame; the window is installed on the inner side of the frame, and a gas flow channel allowing reaction gas to flow is formed in the first surface, away from the frame, of the window; the current collector is arranged between the window and the detected electrode plate and is used for collecting an electric signal generated by reaction between the reaction gas in the gas flow channel and the detected electrode plate; each group of gas guide mechanism is connected to one of the two frames, and forms a flow path for reaction gas to flow with the gas flow channel positioned on one side of the electrode plate; one side face, perpendicular to the first surface, of at least one window is exposed outwards between the two end plate assemblies and forms a light receiving face, and the light receiving face is configured to allow laser to enter the gas flow channel so as to generate a test light signal.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of electrochemical cell technology, and in particular to a visualization testing device and system for solid oxide fuel cells. Background Technology

[0002] Solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) directly convert the chemical energy of fuel into electrical energy through electrochemical redox reactions. The fuel (such as hydrogen, methane, or syngas) in the anode undergoes oxidation, while the oxidant (such as oxygen or air) in the cathode undergoes reduction. A solid electrolyte is used to transfer cations. As a highly efficient and environmentally friendly all-solid-state power generation device, SOFCs have become a highly anticipated technology in the global energy transition due to their wide range of fuel options, long service life, low emissions, and the absence of precious metal catalysts.

[0003] SOFCs show great promise in distributed generation, combined heat and power (CHP), and auxiliary power for transportation, but their commercialization is still hampered by complex system integration, material performance degradation, and unclear microscopic dynamic mechanisms. In practical engineering, multiple electrode sheets are often connected in series to form a stack that outputs sufficient power. Therefore, the stack is frequently tested to address issues such as thermal management, thermal expansion mismatch, and current distribution. However, stack testing cannot precisely control the conditions of each cell, and it is difficult to observe microscopic mechanisms such as material performance, reaction intermediates, and carbon deposition. Current research on single-electrode testing devices mainly focuses on electrochemical performance testing, such as macroscopic performance parameters like polarization curves and impedance spectra, and cannot observe microscopic dynamics such as changes in chemical composition and elementary reactions on the electrode surface. Therefore, a testing device that can achieve visualized observation of SOFC cells is needed. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In view of this, in order to at least partially solve the aforementioned technical problems, the present invention provides a visualization testing device for solid oxide fuel cells.

[0005] As one aspect of the present invention, a visualization testing device for solid oxide fuel cells is provided, comprising: a clamping mechanism including two end plate assemblies for clamping an electrode sheet under test in a first direction, each end plate assembly including: a frame; a window installed inside the frame, the first surface of the window opposite to the frame forming a gas flow channel for the flow of reactant gas; a current collector installed between the window and the electrode sheet to collect electrical signals generated by the reaction of reactant gas in the gas flow channel with the electrode sheet; and two sets of gas guiding mechanisms, each set of gas guiding structures connected to one of the two frames and forming a flow path for the flow of reactant gas with the gas flow channel located on one side of the electrode sheet; wherein at least one side of the window perpendicular to the first surface is exposed to the outside between the two end plate assemblies and forms a light receiving surface, the light receiving surface being configured to allow external laser light to enter the gas flow channel perpendicular to the light receiving surface to generate a test light signal.

[0006] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the light receiving surface is perpendicular to the side of the frame connected to the air guiding mechanism.

[0007] According to an embodiment of the present invention, in each of the endplate assemblies, the window is exposed to the outside at the central portion of the frame opposite to the second surface which is opposite to the first surface, and the test light signal is drawn out from the second surface.

[0008] According to an embodiment of the present invention, each group of the gas guiding mechanism includes an air inlet channel and an air outlet channel, and the gas flow channel includes an air inlet end and an air outlet end. The air inlet channel and the air outlet channel are respectively connected to the air inlet end and the air outlet end of the gas flow channel through a connecting channel formed in the frame.

[0009] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the air inlet channel and the air outlet channel are provided with wires, the first end of the wires is connected to the current collector, the second end is connected to the measuring instrument, and the first end of the wires is coated with a photoblack body material.

[0010] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the window is recessed inward from the first surface to form a plurality of first grooves extending along a second direction and spaced apart in a third direction; wherein the first direction, the second direction and the third direction are orthogonal to each other; the window is recessed inward from the first surface to form a second groove that connects the plurality of first grooves, and the plurality of first grooves and second grooves form the gas flow channel.

[0011] According to an embodiment of the present invention, each current collector includes: a main body portion electrically connected to a power line in the conductor; and a plurality of fingers extending parallel to and spaced apart from the main body portion, wherein the plurality of fingers are respectively aligned with the gaps between the plurality of first grooves, so that the reactant gas contacts the electrode sheet.

[0012] According to an embodiment of the present invention, each endplate assembly further includes a seal disposed between the window and the frame.

[0013] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the clamping mechanism further includes a fixing component configured to fix the two end plate assemblies relative to each other to fix the electrode sheet.

[0014] As another aspect of the present invention, a solid oxide fuel cell visualization testing system is provided, comprising: any of the above-described solid oxide fuel cell visualization testing devices; a laser configured to emit laser light onto the light-receiving surface of a viewing window; and a detector configured to capture and analyze test light signals through the viewing window to obtain qualitative and quantitative analysis of the molecules or atoms of the reactant gas; or to obtain images of free radicals within the gas flow channel.

[0015] The solid oxide fuel cell visualization testing device and system provided by the embodiments of the present invention clamps the electrode sheet under test through two end plate assemblies of a clamping mechanism. Anode gas and cathode gas are then introduced into the gas channels of the two end plate assemblies through two sets of gas guiding mechanisms. The electrode sheet, anode gas, and cathode gas contact and generate current. The generated current is collected by a current collector and the electrical signal is transmitted to the outside. Simultaneously, the microscopic mechanisms of the gas channels and the battery surface can be observed and analyzed through a viewing window, such as the electrode materials and parameters on the cathode and anode surfaces, gas composition, generation of free radicals such as hydroxyl groups, and deposition of carbon and chromium, thus improving the accuracy of battery testing. The viewing window is equipped with a light-receiving surface, allowing a laser to be emitted into the gas channel through the light-receiving surface and generate a test light signal. A detector captures and analyzes the changes in the test light signal in the gas channel induced by the laser, enabling visualized observation of the microscopic mechanisms and temperature distribution on the SOFC electrode sheet surface. This facilitates the optimization of electrode material and structure design, the understanding of battery reaction mechanisms, and research on preventing battery performance degradation, thereby improving battery reaction efficiency. Attached Figure Description

[0016] The above and other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become clearer from the following description of embodiments of the invention with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0017] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the solid oxide fuel cell visualization testing device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0018] Figure 2 This is an exploded view of the clamping mechanism according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0019] Figure 3 This is a front view of the solid oxide fuel cell visualization testing device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0020] Figure 4 This is a side view of a clamping mechanism according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0021] Figure 5 This is a side view of a clamping mechanism according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0022] Figure 6 This is a side view of the window in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0023] Figure 7 This is a side view of the seal according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0024] Figure 8 This is a flowchart of the visualization test system for solid oxide fuel cells according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0026] 100. Electrode plates;

[0027] 1. Clamping mechanism; 11. End plate assembly; 111. Frame; 112. Viewing window; 1121. Gas flow channel; 1122. First groove; 1123. Second groove; 113. Current collector; 1131. Main body; 1132. Finger; 114. Seal; 1141. Inlet slot; 1142. Outlet slot; 115. Fixing assembly; 116. Sealing gasket;

[0028] 2. Gas guiding mechanism; 21. Anode gas guiding pipe; 22. Cathode gas guiding pipe; 23. Anode lead wire port; 24. Cathode lead wire port; 25. Anode connector assembly; 26. Cathode connector assembly. Detailed Implementation

[0029] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the present invention clearer, the present invention will be further described in detail below with reference to specific embodiments and accompanying drawings.

[0030] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the invention. The terms “comprising,” “including,” etc., as used herein indicate the presence of the stated features, steps, operations, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, operations, or components.

[0031] All terms used herein, including technical and scientific terms, have the meanings commonly understood by those skilled in the art, unless otherwise defined. It should be noted that the terms used herein are to be interpreted in a manner consistent with the context of this specification, and not in an idealized or overly rigid way.

[0032] When using expressions such as "at least one of A, B, and C," the meaning should generally be interpreted according to the understanding of someone skilled in the art. For example, "a system having at least one of A, B, and C" should include, but is not limited to, systems having A alone, having B alone, having C alone, having A and B, having A and C, having B and C, and / or having A, B, and C. Similarly, when using expressions such as "at least one of A, B, or C," the meaning should generally be interpreted according to the understanding of someone skilled in the art. For example, "a system having at least one of A, B, or C" should include, but is not limited to, systems having A alone, having B alone, having C alone, having A and B, having A and C, having B and C, and / or having A, B, and C.

[0033] It should also be noted that the directional terms mentioned in the embodiments, such as "up," "down," "front," "back," "left," and "right," are only for reference to the directions in the accompanying drawings and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of the present invention. Throughout the accompanying drawings, the same elements are represented by the same or similar reference numerals. Conventional structures or constructions will be omitted where they may cause confusion in understanding the present invention.

[0034] In the process of realizing this invention, it was found that SOFC single electrode sheet testing device is usually composed of a clamping unit and a gas supply unit, used to measure basic electrochemical properties such as battery open circuit voltage, polarization curve and impedance spectrum. However, since it does not have a visualization window, it is impossible to observe the microscopic mechanism on the electrode sheet surface.

[0035] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the solid oxide fuel cell visualization testing device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 This is an exploded view of the clamping mechanism according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] According to one aspect of the present invention, a visualization testing apparatus for solid oxide fuel cells is provided, such as... Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the solid oxide fuel cell visualization test device includes a clamping mechanism 1 and two sets of gas guiding mechanisms 2. The clamping mechanism 1 includes a first direction ( Figure 1Two endplate assemblies 11 (shown in the X direction) clamp the electrode sheet 100 under test. Each endplate assembly 11 includes a frame 111, a window 112, and a current collector 113. The window 112 is mounted inside the frame 111, and a first surface of the window 112 facing away from the frame 111 forms a gas channel 1121 for the flow of reactive gas. The current collector 113 is installed between the window 112 and the electrode sheet 100 under test to collect the electrical signal generated by the reaction of the reactive gas in the gas channel 1121 with the electrode sheet 100 under test. Each gas guiding mechanism 2 is connected to one of the two frames 111 and forms a flow path for the reactive gas with the gas channel 1121 located on one side of the electrode sheet 100. At least one side of the window 112 perpendicular to the first surface is exposed to the outside between the two endplate assemblies 11 and forms a light receiving surface. The light receiving surface is configured to allow a laser beam perpendicular to the light receiving surface to enter the gas channel 1121 to generate a test light signal.

[0037] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the solid oxide fuel cell visualization testing device, by setting a light receiving surface on the side of the viewing window 112, allows laser light to enter the gas flow channel 1121, so that the testing device is no longer limited to measuring macroscopic electrochemical performance (such as voltage, current, impedance), and can further utilize techniques such as spectroscopy to observe changes in the chemical composition of the electrode surface in real time and in situ, track reaction intermediates, and study microscopic processes such as carbon deposition, thereby improving the dimension and depth of the test.

[0038] The solid oxide fuel cell visualization testing device provided in this embodiment of the invention ensures that the single electrode sheet 100 test can accurately control the test conditions (e.g., temperature, gas composition, flow rate, etc.), avoiding the problem of mixed parameters and inability to attribute causes in the stack test.

[0039] When the laser is incident perpendicularly to the light receiving surface into the gas channel, the laser can pass directly through the gas channel, resulting in the shortest optical path and minimal energy loss. This produces a clearer and more stable test light signal, which is convenient for accurate measurement.

[0040] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the viewing window 112 must be transparent for observation, and also able to withstand high temperatures (e.g., 600°C-1000°C) and be gas-sealed. As an example, the material of the viewing window 112 may include quartz, which has high light transmittance, resulting in a transmittance of >90% in the ultraviolet to visible light band and >70% in the infrared light band within the viewing window 112. This effectively improves the capture rate of test light signals and the accuracy of the test. This facilitates the observation of free radicals on the surface of the solar cell.

[0041] As an example, electrode 100 can be a single-cell structure of a solid oxide fuel cell, which may include an anode, an electrolyte, and a cathode.

[0042] Similarly, the solid oxide fuel cell visualization testing device provided in this embodiment of the invention can also be used to test solid oxide electrolyzers (SOECs).

[0043] When testing SOFCs, the solid oxide fuel cell visualization testing device provided by this invention allows for observation of fuel consumption uniformity, product water distribution and discharge, and study of how to improve power generation efficiency. When testing SOECs, the solid oxide fuel cell visualization testing device provided by this invention allows for observation of water vapor supply uniformity, product hydrogen / oxygen generation and removal processes, and study of how to improve electrolysis efficiency.

[0044] The electrode plate located on the cathode side is the cathode side, and the electrode plate located on the anode side is the anode side. Of the two end plate assemblies, the one located on the anode side of the electrode 100 is the anode end plate assembly, and the one located on the cathode side of the electrode 100 is the cathode end plate assembly. Of the two end plate assemblies 11, the current collector 113 located on the anode side of the electrode 100 is the anode current collector, and the one located on the cathode side of the electrode 100 is the cathode current collector. Of the two sets of gas guiding mechanisms 2, one set connected to the anode gas guiding channel is the anode gas guiding mechanism, and the one connected to the cathode gas guiding channel is the cathode gas guiding mechanism.

[0045] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the anode current collector 113 may be made of nickel, and the cathode current collector 113 may be made of silver.

[0046] On the cathode side, oxygen (O2) in the reacting gas (e.g., air) gains electrons from the cathode current collector 113, becoming oxygen ions (O²⁻). These oxygen ions pass through the dense electrolyte layer in the middle of the electrode plate 100 and reach the anode side. On the anode side, the reacting gas (i.e., fuel, e.g., hydrogen (H2)) reacts with these oxygen ions to produce water (H2O), releasing electrons. The released electrons flow from the anode to the cathode through the anode current collector 113, forming an electrical signal.

[0047] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the gas flow channel 1121 and the gas guiding mechanism 2 supply reactant gas (such as hydrogen or air) to the electrode plate 100, which can simulate the gas supply situation during the operation of a real SOFC. The current collector 113 collects the electrical signal (e.g., current signal) generated by the electrode reaction, which can be used to measure the performance of the electrode plate 100.

[0048] As an example, the test optical signal can be configured to acquire qualitative and quantitative analysis of the molecules or atoms of the gas within the gas channel 1121, or to acquire images of free radicals located within the gas channel 1121.

[0049] In the process of realizing this invention, it was discovered that laser-induced technology in active optics, with its non-contact, high precision, and high sensitivity, is widely used in energy, medical, materials, aerospace and other fields. Among them, laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) and laser-induced fluorescence (LIF) technologies can be used in the SOFC visualization test device provided in the embodiments of this invention to detect the gas composition, intermediate product formation, carbon and chromium deposition, etc. on the surface of gas channel 1121 and electrode sheet 100.

[0050] LIBS induces plasma generation on the SOFC surface using high-energy laser pulses. By analyzing the characteristic spectrum of plasma emission, it enables rapid, real-time detection of elements and deposits (such as Ni, S, C, etc.) on the SOFC surface. Specifically, a laser emits lasers of different wavelengths, and the pulsed laser path is adjusted by an external reflector. A convex lens focuses the laser beam onto the light-receiving surface on the side of the SOFC testing device. When the laser irradiance exceeds the breakdown threshold of the electrode plate 100, molecules, atoms, and other particles in the laser ablation area are ionized to generate high-temperature plasma. The atoms, ions, and molecules in the plasma undergo energy level transitions and emit light of different wavelengths. A detector (e.g., a focal beam detector) receives the plasma radiation and transmits it to a spectrometer via optical fiber for analysis, enabling qualitative and quantitative analysis of gas molecules and atoms.

[0051] LIF (Liquid Induction Laser) excites electronic transitions in target molecules (such as OH, O, CO, etc.) using lasers of specific wavelengths and captures the emitted fluorescence signals, enabling rapid imaging of the chemical composition of the gas flow channel 1121. Specifically, a tunable laser outputs nanosecond lasers of different wavelengths to meet the excitation requirements of different substances such as OH, CH, and CO. After being shaped by an external aperture, the laser beam is expanded in a specific direction by a cylindrical concave lens to form a sheet-like laser beam. This sheet-like laser beam is then collimated and its thickness adjusted by a spherical convex lens, ultimately forming a thin and uniform laser sheet perpendicular to the light-receiving surface, which is then injected into the gas flow channel 1121 of the SOFC testing device.

[0052] Within gas channel 1121, laser excitation drives target molecules to transition to higher energy levels. These excited molecules spontaneously transition back to lower energy levels, emitting wavelength-specific fluorescence (i.e., test light signals). An enhancement-coupled device (ICCD) camera, positioned perpendicular to the laser propagation direction, collects these fluorescence signals and captures images, thus obtaining a two-dimensional distribution map of the target component. To ensure experimental safety, the laser sheet after passing through gas channel 1121 can be received by a beam cutoff.

[0053] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the lasers in LIBS and LIF can be emitted by the same laser or by different lasers.

[0054] Figure 3 This is a front view of the solid oxide fuel cell visualization test apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0055] like Figure 3 As shown, the laser beam travels from a third party to ( Figure 3 The plasma (in the direction indicated by the middle arrow) is incident on the light-receiving surface, and the plasma or fluorescence exits through the second surface opposite to the first surface and is collected by the detector.

[0056] Alternatively, the laser can also be emitted from a second direction ( Figure 1 (As shown in the Y direction) it is incident on the light-receiving surface.

[0057] Figure 4 This is a side view of a clamping mechanism according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0058] As an example, such as Figure 4 As shown, one side of one of the windows 112, perpendicular to the first surface, is exposed to the outside between the two endplate assemblies 11 and forms a light receiving surface.

[0059] Figure 5 This is a side view of a clamping mechanism according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0060] In other embodiments, such as Figure 5 As shown, one side of the window 112 on the two end plate assemblies 11, which is perpendicular to the first surface, is exposed to the outside between the two end plate assemblies 11 and forms a light receiving surface.

[0061] In this embodiment, if the laser beam enters perpendicularly from the second surface (i.e., the top or bottom surface of the gas channel 1121), it will act like a physical obstacle, directly interfering with the uniform flow and distribution of the reacting gas. However, if the laser beam enters from the side (i.e., the light-receiving surface), it enters along the wall of the gas channel 1121, and its impact on the main flow field is negligible, ensuring the realism of the test environment. Side incidence, combined with the light exiting from the central second surface, forms an "optical path" that runs through the entire reaction area. This allows the laser to sweep laterally across different areas of the electrode sheet 100, rather than just detecting a single point. This is crucial for studying the uniformity of the surface reaction of the electrode sheet 100 or for performing two-dimensional imaging analysis, enabling the acquisition of richer spatial distribution information.

[0062] Furthermore, the side incidence combined with the extraction from the second surface forms an optical path that runs through the entire reaction area. This allows the laser to scan different regions of the electrode 100 from the side, rather than just detecting a single point. This is crucial for studying the uniformity of the surface reaction of the electrode 100 or for performing two-dimensional imaging analysis, enabling the acquisition of richer spatial distribution information.

[0063] According to embodiments of the present invention, such as Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, in each endplate assembly 11, the window 112 is exposed to the outside at the central part of the second surface of the frame 111 opposite to the first surface, and the test light signal is drawn out from the second surface.

[0064] Frame 111 is a ring structure, for example, in the second direction and the third direction ( Figure 1 The plane (shown in the Z direction) is projected along the first direction, and the projection of frame 111 can be a rectangular ring, a circular ring, or a polygonal ring structure. The center of the second surface of window 112 is exposed to the outside through the through hole of the ring structure.

[0065] In this embodiment, the laser is incident from the light-receiving surface located on the side and exits from the center of the second surface orthogonal to the light-receiving surface, forming a complete optical path of laser incident-response-signal extraction. Setting the signal extraction point at the center of the second surface maximizes its distance from the edges of the frame 111 and clamping mechanism 1, reducing potential optical path interference or signal attenuation caused by the mechanical structure, and ensuring a purer and more accurate test light signal. Furthermore, the central region is typically where the reaction is most uniform and complete within the gas flow channel 1121. Extracting the test light signal from this location better reflects the reaction in the core area of ​​the electrode sheet 100, avoiding data deviations that may be caused by edge effects and improving the representativeness of the test.

[0066] According to embodiments of the present invention, such as Figure 1 As shown, the light receiving surface is perpendicular to the side of the frame 111 connected to the gas guiding mechanism 2, which prevents stray light formed by the reflection or scattering of the incident laser by the gas guiding mechanism 2 from entering the detection field (i.e., the area exposed by the second surface) and affecting the test light signal, thereby reducing background noise, improving the signal-to-noise ratio, and ensuring the purity and accuracy of the test light signal.

[0067] As an example, the second surface opposite to the first surface can be configured to allow the electrode sheet 100 to radiate light radiation signals outward, so as to obtain the real-time temperature of the electrode sheet 100 based on the light radiation signals.

[0068] Dual-color thermometry, a passive optical thermometry technique, is based on the blackbody radiation law. It measures the thermal radiation intensity of the SOFC single electrode sheet 100 at two fixed wavelengths, uses the ratio of the two radiation intensities to eliminate the influence of emissivity, and then calculates the temperature by combining Planck's law. Specifically, the divergent light radiation signal from electrode 100 is first focused into the fiber core through a quartz test mirror (i.e., window 112), and transmitted to the spectral splitting module with low loss using the principle of total internal reflection, avoiding external interference. Under the action of the spectral splitting element, the composite light is separated into monochromatic light channels containing only two target wavelengths, filtering out clutter to purify the signal. The two monochromatic lights are received by photodetectors and converted into weak electrical signals. Subsequently, the weak electrical signals are amplified by the signal amplification module and noise is filtered out, raising the microvolt-level weak electrical signal to the input range of the acquisition card. The acquisition card completes dual-channel synchronous analog-to-digital conversion, converting the analog voltage signal into a high-precision digital signal. Finally, the data is transmitted to the host computer, which calculates the light intensity ratio and inverts the real-time temperature of SOFC using a pre-calibrated colorimetric temperature measurement algorithm. It also supports data display, storage, and over-temperature alarm, thereby realizing non-contact, real-time, and high-precision monitoring of SOFC surface temperature.

[0069] The solid oxide fuel cell visualization testing device provided by the present invention can combine laser induction technology and dual-color temperature measurement technology with the testing device to improve the efficiency and accuracy of battery testing.

[0070] According to an embodiment of the present invention, each gas guiding mechanism 2 includes an air inlet channel and an air outlet channel, and the gas flow channel 1121 includes an air inlet end and an air outlet end. The air inlet channel and the air outlet channel are respectively connected to the air inlet end and the air outlet end of the gas flow channel 1121 through a connecting channel formed in the frame 111.

[0071] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the reaction gas at the anode, i.e., the fuel gas (e.g., hydrogen, methane, and syngas), enters the anode end plate through the anode inlet channel, and then enters the gas flow channel 1121 of the anode end plate after passing through the connecting channel and the inlet end of the gas flow channel 1121. After passing through the gas flow channel 1121 and reacting, the exhaust gas is discharged from the outlet end of the gas flow channel 1121 and discharged to the outside through the connecting channel from the anode outlet channel.

[0072] The reacting gas at the cathode, i.e., the oxidant (such as oxygen, air, etc.), enters the cathode end plate from the cathode inlet channel, and then sequentially passes through the connecting channel and the inlet end of the gas flow channel 1121 before entering the gas flow channel 1121 of the cathode end plate. After passing through the gas flow channel 1121 and reacting, the waste gas is discharged from the outlet end of the gas flow channel 1121, and then discharged to the outside through the connecting channel from the cathode outlet channel. Through the above technical solution,

[0073] Anode fuel gas and cathode oxidant enter the end plate through the gas inlet channel, respectively, so that the reaction gas reacts on the surface of electrode plate 100 and generates current, so as to generate test light signal under the induction of subsequent incident laser.

[0074] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a wire is provided in the air intake channel and the air outlet channel. The first end of the wire is connected to the current collector 113, and the second end is connected to the measuring instrument. The first end of the wire is coated with a photoluminescent blackbody material.

[0075] The anode inlet channel has an anode connector assembly 25 at one end connected to the anode end plate. Each anode connector assembly 25 has an anode lead wire port 23. The first end of the lead wire connects to the anode current collector 113, and the second end connects to an external instrument via the anode gas guide tube 21 and the anode lead wire port 23. The lead wire is short, and its first end is coated with a photosensitive blackbody material to prevent laser reflection from affecting the capture of the test light signal in the viewing window 112, thus preventing noise from affecting the detection system. Specifically,

[0076] The anode current collector 113 is connected to a current-collecting wire, a voltage-collecting wire, and a thermocouple wire for measuring the surface temperature of the electrode plate 100. These wires are connected to a current measuring instrument, a voltage measuring instrument, and a thermocouple, respectively, via the anode gas pipe 21 and the anode wire port 23, to measure the current, voltage, and surface temperature of the electrode plate 100. The cathode gas pipe 22, the cathode connector assembly 26, and the cathode wire port 24 are arranged similarly to the anode and will not be described further here.

[0077] Figure 6 This is a perspective view of a window in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0078] According to embodiments of the present invention, such as Figure 6 As shown, the window 112 is recessed inward from the first surface to form a plurality of first grooves 1122 extending along the second direction and spaced apart in the third direction; wherein the first direction, the second direction and the third direction are orthogonal to each other; the window 112 is recessed inward from the first surface to form a second groove 1123 that connects the plurality of first grooves 1122, and the plurality of first grooves 1122 and the second groove 1123 form a gas flow channel 1121.

[0079] As an example, the window 112 forms two second grooves 1123, which are located at both ends of a plurality of first grooves respectively. One second groove 1123 serves as an air inlet, and the other second groove 1123 serves as an air outlet, which are respectively connected to the communication channel provided on the frame 111.

[0080] With the light-receiving surface as the projection surface and the direction perpendicular to the light-receiving surface as the projection direction, the projections of at least a portion of the plurality of first grooves 1122 and second grooves 1123 coincide with the projection of the exposed portion of the light-receiving surface.

[0081] As an example, the depth of the first groove 1122 can be 1 mm, and the dimension of the window 112 protruding from the frame 111 along the first direction can be 2 mm. In this way, the image of the head in the first groove 1122 can completely overlap with the projection of the exposed part of the light receiving surface.

[0082] In some alternative embodiments, the extension direction of the first groove 1122 may also be a third direction, and the plurality of first grooves 1122 are arranged at intervals along the second direction. Two second grooves 1123 extend along the second direction and are respectively disposed at both ends of the plurality of first grooves 1122, communicating with the plurality of first grooves 1122.

[0083] The current collector 113 is disposed between the viewing window 112 and the electrode plate 100, and cooperates with the electrode plate 100 to seal the gas flow channel 1121.

[0084] In this embodiment, multiple first grooves 1122 arranged at intervals are connected by second grooves 1123, forming a capillary network structure. This ensures that the reactant gas can be uniformly distributed to the surface of the electrode plate 100, avoiding situations where some areas are gas-rich and others are gas-deficient, thus guaranteeing the uniformity of the reaction. Furthermore, the design of the first grooves 1122 and second grooves 1123 allows the reactant gas to form a high-speed airflow close to the surface of the electrode plate 100, enhancing the mass transfer efficiency of the reactant gas to the electrode surface. Simultaneously, the ridges between the grooves provide a more stable and uniform support and contact surface for the current collector 113, ensuring the reliability of electrical signal collection.

[0085] According to an embodiment of the present invention, each current collector 113 includes a main body and a plurality of fingers. The main body is electrically connected to a power line in a conductor, and the plurality of fingers extend parallel to the main body and are spaced apart. The plurality of fingers are respectively aligned with the gaps between the plurality of first grooves 1122, so that the reactive gas contacts the electrode sheet 100.

[0086] The reactant gas flows into the gas channel 1121 from the connecting channel on the frame 111 through the gas guiding mechanism 2, and comes into contact with the cathode or anode on the electrode plate 100. The sidewall of the collector is exposed to the gas channel 1121 and comes into contact with the reactant gas.

[0087] In this embodiment, the reactant gas can flow unobstructed through the gas channel 1121 and react directly with the electrode plate 100. The electrical signal can be collected through multiple fingers located between the first grooves 1122. The gas channel 1121 and the current collector 113 are spatially staggered and do not interfere with each other, but they work together on the same area of ​​the electrode plate 100, avoiding the contradictions in conventional designs where the current collector 113 blocks the gas channel 1121 or the gas channel 1121 weakens the electrical contact.

[0088] As an example, the portion of the gas flow channel 1121 that contacts the current collector 113 or the electrode plate 100 is in the form of an opening, so that the gas from the anode and cathode can contact the current collector 113 to react fully.

[0089] As an example, the gas flow channel 1121 has a direct-flow structure with a width of 2 mm and a spacing of 5 mm between adjacent channels, which facilitates observation while meeting the gas supply requirements of the electrode plate 100 surface; Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the window 11212 is 5 mm wide exposed between the two end plate assemblies 11 to facilitate the laser entering the gas flow channel 1121.

[0090] Figure 7 This is a side view of the seal according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0091] According to embodiments of the present invention, such as Figure 2 and Figure 7 As shown, each endplate assembly 11 also includes a seal 114 disposed between the window 112 and the frame 111, configured to prevent gas leakage in the gas flow channel 1121.

[0092] According to embodiments of the present invention, such as Figure 2 and Figure 7 As shown, the seal 114 is provided with an inlet slot 1141 that connects the inlet end of the gas flow channel 1121 to the inlet channel, and an outlet slot 1142 that connects the outlet end of the gas flow channel 1121 to the outlet channel.

[0093] As an example, such as Figure 7 As shown, the seal can be a ring structure.

[0094] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a sealing gasket 116 is provided between the anode window 112 and the anode current collector 113, and a sealing gasket 116 is provided between the cathode window 112 and the cathode current collector 113, to further prevent gas leakage in the gas flow channel 1121.

[0095] According to embodiments of the present invention, such as Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the clamping mechanism 1 also includes a fixing component 115, which is configured to fix the two end plate assemblies 11 relative to each other to fix the electrode sheet 100 to be tested.

[0096] As an example, the fixing assembly 115 includes a ceramic spring, bolts, nuts, and washers. The frame 111 has screw holes for the bolts at three edges, excluding the side connecting to the air guiding mechanism 2. The ceramic spring has a linear elastic response, which can prevent nonlinear deformation of the end plate assembly 11. Furthermore, the coefficients of thermal expansion of the ceramic and the electrode sheet 100 are matched, preventing crack propagation in the electrode sheet 100 due to stress concentration.

[0097] The fixing component 115 is connected to another frame 111 through a hole in one frame 111.

[0098] As an example, a slight gap is left between the gasket and the frame 111 to keep the gasket flexible and prevent the bolt from breaking; the side edge of the frame 111 where the incident laser is located is provided with two screw holes at both ends, and the other edges are provided with three screw holes, so that the two end plate assemblies 11 are fixed while preventing the fixing assembly 115 from interfering with the incident laser.

[0099] In this embodiment, by setting the fixing component 115, the two end plate assemblies 11 are tightly pressed against the electrode sheet 100, ensuring that the seal 114 and the sealing gasket 116 can be fully compressed, effectively preventing the reaction gas from leaking from the gaps. Furthermore, the fingers of the current collector 113 form a low-resistance, high-reliability electrical contact with the electrode sheet 100, ensuring that weak electrical signals can be effectively and losslessly collected and transmitted.

[0100] According to another aspect of the present invention, a solid oxide fuel cell visualization testing system is provided. The system includes any of the aforementioned solid oxide fuel cell visualization testing devices, a laser, and a detector. The laser is configured to emit laser light towards the light-receiving surface of a viewing window 112. The detector is configured to capture and analyze test signals through the viewing window 112.

[0101] Other features of this implementation have become apparent in the above embodiments and will not be repeated here.

[0102] by Figures 1 to 7 Using the solid oxide fuel cell visualization test device structure shown, and laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS), laser-induced fluorescence (LIF), and dual-color temperature measurement technology as examples, the working principle of the above-mentioned battery visualization test system is explained.

[0103] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the workflow of the solid oxide fuel cell visualization testing system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0104] like Figure 8 As shown, the specific steps are as follows:

[0105] During the initialization phase of the working condition, the electrode sheet 100 to be tested is clamped using the clamping mechanism 1 and fixed using the fixing component 115. Two alumina pads are placed at the center of the electric furnace. The battery visualization test device is placed on the alumina pads, the electric furnace door is covered, the heat insulation material is filled into the holes around the pipe, and inert gas is introduced to purge the anode gas guide pipe 21. After ensuring that there is no air 8 remaining in the anode gas guide pipe 21, fuel gas is introduced through the anode gas inlet channel, and air is introduced through the cathode gas inlet channel at the same time.

[0106] During the initial heating stage, the electric furnace heats the temperature to the target temperature at a rate of 5 °C / min. The temperature, current, and voltage of the electrode plate 100 surface are obtained through thermocouples, current leads, and voltage leads, respectively.

[0107] During the steady-state maintenance phase, after the surface temperature of the electrode sheet 100 rises to the target temperature and remains stable, the electric furnace stops heating. A laser is used to emit a laser beam onto the light-receiving surface of the window 112 to ablate and excite the electrode elements such as nickel (Ni), yttrium (Y), zirconium (Zr), and carbon (C) to form plasma. The emission spectrum is collected and analyzed. A detector is used to capture the light signal generated by the plasma from the first surface of the window 112 and analyze its spectrum.

[0108] During the steady-state heating phase, as the surface temperature of electrode 100 gradually increases to the target temperature, a laser is used to emit a laser beam matching the substance to be tested (e.g., the excitation wavelength of hydroxyl radicals is approximately 85 nm, while the fluorescence collection wavelength is approximately 307 nm) onto the light-receiving surface of window 112. This excites molecular changes and the generation of fluorescence in reaction intermediates on the surface of electrode 100. Simultaneously, a detector (e.g., an enhanced charge-coupled device, an ICCD camera) is used to capture the fluorescence signal from the first surface of window 112. During the steady-state maintenance phase, once the surface temperature of electrode 100 is maintained at the target temperature, the furnace stops heating and maintains the target temperature. At the same time, the frequency of laser emission is increased, and a detector is used to capture the fluorescence signal from the first surface of window 112. The dynamic curves of fluorescence intensity changing with heating time and the concentration of generated molecules changing with temperature are recorded and analyzed.

[0109] During the steady-state heating phase, as the surface temperature of electrode 100 gradually rises to the target temperature, a detector can collect the dual-wavelength radiation energy emitted by the first surface of window 112, convert it into an electrical signal, transmit it to the data acquisition card, and calculate the temperature in real time. During the steady-state maintenance phase, once the surface temperature of electrode 100 is maintained at the target temperature, the electric furnace stops heating and maintains the target temperature. At the same time, the detector switches to high-frequency sampling, increases the sampling frequency, detects local hot spots, and continuously records the surface temperature field of electrode 100 to generate a temperature distribution cloud map.

[0110] The specific embodiments described above further illustrate the purpose, technical solution, and beneficial effects of the present invention. It should be understood that the above descriptions are merely specific embodiments of the present invention and are not intended to limit the present invention. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A solid oxide fuel cell visualisation testing apparatus, characterised in that, The solid oxide fuel cell visual testing device comprises: a clamping mechanism comprising two end plate assemblies clamping the measured electrode sheet in a first direction, each of the end plate assemblies comprising: a frame; a window mounted on the inner side of the frame, a first surface of the window facing away from the frame forming a gas flow channel for the flow of reaction gas; and a current collector mounted between the window and the electrode sheet to collect the electrical signal generated by the reaction between the reaction gas in the gas flow channel and the electrode sheet; and two sets of gas guiding mechanisms, each set of gas guiding mechanisms being connected to one of the two frames and forming a flow path for the flow of reaction gas with the gas flow channel on one side of the electrode sheet; wherein one side of at least one of the windows perpendicular to the first surface is exposed to the outside between the two end plate assemblies and forms a light receiving surface, the light receiving surface being configured to allow external laser light to be incident on the gas flow channel perpendicular to the light receiving surface to generate a test light signal.

2. The solid oxide fuel cell visualisation test device of claim 1, wherein, The light receiving surface is perpendicular to one side of the frame connected to the gas guiding mechanism.

3. The solid oxide fuel cell visualisation test apparatus of claim 1, wherein, In each of the end plate assemblies, the window is exposed to the outside at the central part of the frame facing away from a second surface opposite to the first surface, and the test light signal is led out from the second surface.

4. The solid oxide fuel cell visualisation test device of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, Each set of the gas guiding mechanisms comprises a gas inlet channel and a gas outlet channel, the gas flow channel comprises a gas inlet end and a gas outlet end, and the gas inlet channel and the gas outlet channel are connected to the gas inlet end and the gas outlet end of the gas flow channel through a communication channel formed in the frame, respectively.

5. The solid oxide fuel cell visualisation test device of claim 4, wherein, A wire is arranged in the gas inlet channel and the gas outlet channel, a first end of the wire is connected to the current collector, and a second end of the wire is connected to a measuring instrument, and the first end of the wire is coated with a light-induced black material.

6. The solid oxide fuel cell visual testing device according to claim 5, wherein: the window is recessed inwardly from the first surface to form a plurality of first grooves extending in a second direction and arranged in a third direction; and the window is recessed inwardly from the first surface to form a second groove communicating with the plurality of first grooves, and the plurality of first grooves and the second groove form the gas flow channel.

7. The electrochemical cell visualisation test apparatus of claim 6, wherein, Each of the current collectors comprises: a main body part electrically connected to a power supply wire of the wire; and a plurality of finger parts extending in parallel from the main body part and arranged in a spaced manner, and the plurality of finger parts are respectively aligned with the gaps between the plurality of first grooves to allow the reaction gas to contact the electrode sheet.

8. The solid oxide fuel cell visualisation test apparatus of claim 4, wherein, Each of the end plate assemblies further comprises: a sealing member arranged between the window and the frame.

9. The solid oxide fuel cell visualisation test apparatus of claim 1, wherein, The clamping mechanism further comprises: a fixing assembly configured to relatively fix the two end plate assemblies to fix the electrode sheet.

10. A solid oxide fuel cell visualisation testing system characterised in that, The solid oxide fuel cell visual testing device comprises: the solid oxide fuel cell visual testing device according to any one of claims 1-9; a laser configured to emit laser light to the light receiving surface of the window; and a detector configured to capture the test light signal through the window and analyze the test light signal to obtain qualitative and quantitative analysis of molecules or atoms of the reaction gas, or to obtain an image of free radicals in the gas flow channel. ​

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