Wide bandgap oxides with ionic conductor operate as single-layer fuel cell
Nanocomposite fuel cells have recently been shown to be able to work as a 1-layer fuel cell instead of a 3-layer (cathode,electrolyte, anode) traditional fuel cell. The 1-layer fuel cell is made of a mixture of semiconducting and ionic materials which contain all functionalities of a fuel cell. Basically, such as fuel cell would have a major potential for mass production because of its simple structure. The working principle of the single layer fuel cell has been debated. Now Aalto University researchers have verified the underlying mechanisms of this fuel cell type by using wide bandgap oxide materials (LiNiZn) with gadolinium-doped ceria. The oxides work as an insulator against electrons in the material preventing short-circuting of the fuel cell. It was found that the material mixture is a protonic conductor. The test fuel cells built reached a power density of 357 mW/cm2 at 550 C without using catalytic current collectors.
The results were published in Nano Energy 53 (2018) 391-397.
- Published:
- Updated:
Read more news

SUMMER INTERNSHIPS AT THE FINANCE FACULTY
We are primarily looking for students majoring in Finance, but we also welcome applications from students with other quantitatively oriented backgrounds. Completion of a Bachelor’s thesis or other relevant experience is a plus.Unlocking the Mysteries of Super Black Materials: A novel wood-based solution
In the ever-evolving world of science and technology, there are certain phenomena that continue to captivate the minds of scientists, artists, and the general public alike. One such phenomenon is the enigmatic world of super black materials.
Medical innovation makes early cancer diagnostics cheaper, faster, easier
Aalto University researcher makes two-pronged improvement on microbubble technology