Harbin Institute of Technology's Breakthrough in Solid Oxide Cell Research

TapTechNews on May 28th, the Hydrogen Energy and Fuel Cell Research Team of the School of Science at Harbin Institute of Technology (Shenzhen) constructed a continuum mechanics theoretical framework of force-thermal-electric-chemical coupling, and quantitatively studied the initial performance of solid oxide cells at the real microscopic electrode scale, filling the blank of the accurate simulation theory of multi-field coupling of solid oxide cells.

TapTechNews learned from HIT that solid oxide cells (SOCs), as an efficient energy conversion device, have shown great potential in the fields of fuel cell power generation and hydrogen production by electrolyzing water. However, the performance degradation problem of SOCs in actual operation, especially the mechanical damage of electrode materials, is one of the main factors restricting its commercialization.

The HIT team provided an accurate quantitative analysis method for studying the mechanical damage of SOCs under the multi-field coupling effect inside the battery under power generation and electrolysis conditions, which has important theoretical and practical significance for improving the stability and lifespan of SOCs. The relevant research results were published in the top journal in the field of solid mechanics, Journal of the Mechanics and Physics of Solids.

The research of the HIT team not only fills the blank of accurate simulation of multi-field coupling of SOCs in theory, but also provides tools for subsequent experimental research and engineering applications, providing a scientific basis for realizing the long-term stability optimization of SOCs under complex operating conditions. In addition, the methods and tools of this research can also be extended and applied to other types of energy conversion and storage devices, which has a broad impact on promoting the development of new energy technologies.