Utilization of Thermocatalysts in Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (SOFCs) Fed with Hydrogen-Rich Fuels: A Mini-Review

Solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) are considered one of the most efficient energy conversion technologies. One of the distinct advantages of SOFCs is that in addition to pure hydrogen, hydrogen-rich fuels such as hydrocarbons, hydronitrogens, and biomass can be fed to SOFCs to generate electrical energy. However, the state-of-the-art nickel-based cermet anodes suffer from carbon deposition or nitridation in hydrogen-rich fuels. To solve these problems, thermocatalysts are widely applied in hydrogen-rich fueled SOFCs. The integration of thermocatalysts and SOFCs plays a critical role in electrochemical performance and stability. In this report, the integration of thermocatalysts in hydrogen-rich fuel based SOFCs is classified into four configurations, and the utilization and effect of thermocatalysts are reviewed. The working principles of thermocatalysts are introduced, and the recent progress of thermocatalysts for hydrogen-rich fueled SOFCs are discussed. The aim of this mini-review is to provide helpful directions for the development of high-performance and durable SOFCs fed with hydrogen-rich fuels.