Catalysis in solid state ionics

With the solid oxide-fuel cell, a technology exploiting ionic conductivity in electroceramic materials, small-scale co-generation plants for combined production of heat and electricity can achieve clean high-efficiency operation. However, with thermal activation of the cell chemistry, extremely high operating temperatures, about 1000 degrees, are required, conditions incompatible with long term reliability using conventional structural materials. Lower-temperature operation depends decisively on the application of electrocatalysis at interfaces to the ceramic electrolyte.