Solid Electrolyte Bonding via Alternating Voltage Polarity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) formed using the wet method experience durability issues due to thermal stress and cracking of the solid electrolyte layer and peeling at the interface with electrodes during repeated heating cycles.
Innovation Solution
A method involving laminating the solid electrolyte layer and electrodes, followed by applying alternating voltages of specific polarities to create a strong adhesive bond using the anode bonding method, which reduces residual stress and enhances durability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the wet method is used to form the solid electrolyte layer, then the manufacturing process is simple and cost-effective, but the solid electrolyte layer develops cracks and peels at the interface with electrodes during repeated heating cycles
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by performing voltage application during the bonding process to create strong adhesion between the solid electrolyte layer and electrodes before thermal cycling begins. The voltage application step creates electrostatic attraction and promotes intimate contact, preventing subsequent cracking and peeling during heating cycles.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs parameter changes by controlling the voltage polarity and magnitude during the bonding process. By applying voltage of a specific polarity to the solid electrolyte layer relative to the electrodes, the patent optimizes the bonding strength and reduces residual stress, thereby improving durability without complicating the manufacturing process.
2Strength
If high voltage is applied to strengthen the adhesive bond, then the bonding strength increases, but residual stress in the solid electrolyte layer increases leading to cracks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves this contradiction by carefully controlling the voltage parameter - applying a moderate voltage of specific polarity that creates sufficient adhesive bond strength without generating excessive residual stress. The polarity control ensures that the electric field distribution optimizes bonding while minimizing stress concentration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies partial action by using just enough voltage to achieve adequate bonding strength, rather than excessive voltage that would create harmful residual stress. The voltage application is controlled to be sufficient for bonding purposes without over-bonding that would induce cracking.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The method significantly improves the durability of SOFCs by reducing residual stress and enhancing the adhesive properties between the solid electrolyte layer and electrodes, allowing for higher reliability under repeated heating cycles.
Implementation Method 1
a solid electrolyte layer (1) and a pair of electrodes (2, 3) that sandwich the solid electrolyte layer (1)
Implementation Method 2
a first voltage application step for applying voltage of a first polarity between opposing electrodes sandwiching the solid electrolyte layer (1), and a second voltage application step for applying voltage of a second polarity that is the reverse of the first polarity
Implementation Method 3
applying alternating voltages of specific polarities to create a strong adhesive bond using the anode bonding method
Data Source
AI summary
A method for bonding a solid electrolyte layer and electrodes used a fuel cell includes: laminating the solid electrolyte layer and the electrodes so that the electrodes sandwich the solid electrolyte layer therebetween; applying a first voltage of a first polarity between the electrodes sandwiching the solid electrolyte layer; and applying a second voltage of a second polarity that is the reverse of the first polarity between the electrodes sandwiching the solid electrolyte layer.