Cu-modified Ni foams as three-dimensional outer anodes for high-performance hybrid direct coal fuel cells

Heping Xie, Shuo Zhai, Tao Liu, Hailong Liao, Yuan Zhang, Wei Zhou, Zongping Shao, Meng Ni, Bin Chen

Research output: Journal article publicationJournal articleAcademic researchpeer-review

24 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

The hybrid direct coal fuel cell (HDCFC) is a promising technology for the generation of power using coal, which is abundant and cheap. However, restricted contact between the solid carbon in the coal and the anode of the cell not only limits the electrochemical oxidation sites, but also adversely affects the transport of electrons and ions. Herein, we demonstrate a new strategy of using Cu-modified Ni foams as the three-dimensional outer anode for a high-performance HDCFC with 3D structure, that is rich in electrochemical reaction sites and beneficial for electron and ion transport when filled with molten carbonates and anthracite coal. Moreover, the CuNi alloy layer formed on the surface of Ni foam is of excellent coking-resistance and capable of preventing ash-clogging, therefore effectively promoting the durability of an electrolyte-supported HDCFC. An excellent maximum power density of 378 mW cm−2 at 750 °C is achieved using the prepared 3D anode with anthracite coal as fuel. Besides, the cell exhibited stable operation for more than 13 h at 100 mA cm−2, promising a new electrode design strategy for developing high-performance HDCFC anodes.

Original languageEnglish
Article number128239
JournalChemical Engineering Journal
Volume410
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 15 Apr 2021

Keywords

  • 3D anode
  • Cu-modified Ni foam
  • Direct carbon fuel cell
  • Fuel utilization

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Chemistry
  • Environmental Chemistry
  • General Chemical Engineering
  • Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering

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