Abstract:

Micro tubular solid oxide fuel cells (MT-SOFCs)have not only the inherent benefits of SOFCs, but exhibit new advantages over conventional SOFCs, such as higher mass transfer/heat transfer, higher reaction efficiency, rapid start-up/shut-down and significantly reduced volume. Therefore, MT-SOFCs show potential applications in portable and mobile power sources. This paper reviews the progress of MT-SOFC studies, focusing on the properties, structures, and fabrications of the cells. The structures and performances of MT-SOFCs supported with electrolyte, anode and cathode respectively are compared and analyzed. The key step for fabrication of MT-SOFCs is the preparation of micro tubes using methods such as isostatic pressing, plastic extrusion and phase inversion spinning methods for hollow fiber ceramics.  Preparation of dense electrolyte membrane and assembling of cell stacks are discussed. The challenges and potential applications of MT-SOFCs in portable power sources, electric vehicles and micro reactors are also highlighted.