Yttria-stabilized zirconia (YSZ)-based hollow fiber solid oxide fuel cells

Electrochemical reactors such as solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) are highly efficient in converting chemical fuels to electrical power. Yttria-stabilized zirconia (YSZ) is one of the most popular electrolytes because of the low cost and its stability in the redox environment. In this study, asymmetric YSZ hollow-fiber membranes have been prepared at relatively lower sintering temperatures and shorter sintering durations using a combined phase inversion and sintering method. The produced YSZ hollow-fiber membranes with an asymmetric structure have shown a high mechanical strength of 296.7 MPa and a gastight property, which is essential for electrolyte applications. The inner porous structure of the YSZ hollow-fiber membranes provides good enhancement in nickel coating, resulting in the low resistance between the electrode (nickel) and the electrolyte (YSZ).