International. Scientists at the University of Birmingham developed a new water-based ink, which is less volatile than those currently used in the manufacture of solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs). This means that the new ink can be stored for longer and also that the coating by immersion can be done without any problems in the drying of the surface.
This new water-based system could also overcome problems around solvent handling and environmental potential around their use. In addition, the electrical performance of fuel cells made with this new ink system has previously surpassed acetone-based systems under laboratory conditions.
Katie Howe, who has led the research at the University of Birmingham, said: "The development of this technology should lead to easy fabrication of the cells as the needs of the ink can be handled, stored and applied more easily. Using water instead of an organic solvent also reduces cost and increases availability."
Commercial applications of SOFCs include combined heat and power production for homes and offices; stationary power generation and small mobile units for civilian and military use.
