6X cell size without losing yield

Dynelectro paves the way for scalable solid oxide electrolysis

Dynelectro demonstrates scalability of solid oxide electrolysis cells (SOECs) through production of cells with an area 600 % larger than current state of the art without compromising manufacturing yield. By making larger cells, the MW-scale systems can be simplified, resulting in a lower production cost of hydrogen.

Challenges

The challenge of scaling the SOECs lies in the firing of the cells. The cells are typically less than 0.5 mm thick and are sintered at temperatures above 1000 ˚C. Sintering of the cells refers to the high-temperature heat treatment process which fuse together (sinter) the particles into a mechanically stable structure. The firing causes the cells to shrink up to 30 % which can result in bending or fracturing of the ceramic sheets. These manufacturing defects are known to increase with the cell area and renders the cells useless for system applications.

The size of SOECs has therefore stagnated at ca. 150 cm², where a reasonable production yield can be achieved. Søren Højgaard Jensen and Anne Lyck Smitshuysen invented a way to exploit the shrinkage during firing and allows successful manufacturing of SOECs with an area beyond 900 cm².

Power-to-X and the role of electrolysis

The concept of Power-to-X (PtX) is to use renewable energy (‘power’) to create a carbon neutral alternative to make products (‘x’) thereby replacing industrial sectors which currently depend heavily on fossil fuels. Electrolysis is a key component in PtX systems, where the power is used to split water into oxygen and hydrogen. This hydrogen can then be used in various applications, from steel production to the creation of alternative fuels and fertilizers.

Advantages of solid oxide electrolysis cells

SOECs operate at high temperatures, giving them a thermodynamic advantage resulting in a higher efficiency compared to other electrolysis technologies. However, the lifespan and size of these cells have been limiting factors. Dynelectro has previously demonstrated a way to extend the lifespan of these cells from 2-3 years to 10 years, significantly reducing the cost of hydrogen production. Combined with the current breakthrough of scalable SOECs, Dynelectro paves the way large-scale electrolysis technologies for a carbon neutral future.

Strategic partnerships

Dynelectro will continue to mature the patent protected technology through strategic partnerships and research collaboration projects with existing manufacturers. This accelerates integration and increases the market potential for SOEC in the electrolysis landscape.