Review on microfabricated micro-solid oxide fuel cell membranes

Micro-solid oxide fuel cells (mu-SOFC) are promising power sources for portable electronic devices. This review presents the current status of development of microfabricated micro-solid oxide fuel cell membranes for power delivery. The mu-SOFC membranes are developed using micro-electro-mechanical system (MEMS) fabrication and machining techniques. The different designs of free-standing mu-SOFC membranes and mu-SOFCs deposited on porous substrates are presented. The materials used in the mu-SOFC anode, electrolyte and cathode are discussed and compared along with their microstructures. The electrical performance data of the different mu-SOFC designs are compared and discussed. High mu-SOFC performances of 677 mW cm(-2) were demonstrated at temperatures as low as 400 degrees C. (C) 2009 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.