Microstructure and property evolution of PIM-processed Fe-30Cr alloys for SOFC/SOEC interconnectors under simulated operational conditions

Solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) and electrolyzer cells (SOECs) require advanced interconnector materials that can withstand extreme conditions while ensuring both efficiency and durability. Although Crofer 22 has been widely studied, its lack of commercial powder limits its use in Powder Injection Mo...

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Detalles Bibliográficos
Autores: Herranz Sánchez-Cosgalla, Gemma, Hidalgo García, Javier, Berges Serrano, Cristina, García Hernández, Celia, García Cabezón, Cristina, Campana, Roberto
Tipo de recurso: artículo
Fecha de publicación:2025
País:España
Institución:Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha
Repositorio:RUIdeRA. Repositorio Institucional de la UCLM
OAI Identifier:oai:ruidera.uclm.es:10578/47363
Acceso en línea:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.matchar.2025.115945
https://hdl.handle.net/10578/47363
Access Level:acceso abierto
Palabra clave:SOFC/SOEC interconnectors
Powder injection moulding (PIM)
Crofer 30
In-service performance
Oxidation resistance
Hydrogen embrittlement
Descripción
Sumario:Solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) and electrolyzer cells (SOECs) require advanced interconnector materials that can withstand extreme conditions while ensuring both efficiency and durability. Although Crofer 22 has been widely studied, its lack of commercial powder limits its use in Powder Injection Moulding (PIM), a promising manufacturing route for cost-effective, high-performance interconnectors with complex geometries. In contrast, Crofer 30 is commercially available in powder form, enabling full utilization of PIM, yet its in-service performance remains untested. This study addresses this gap by evaluating its microstructure evolution, oxidation resistance, hydrogen embrittlement susceptibility, and mechanical integrity under simulated SOFC conditions. PIM-processed Crofer 30 exhibits a suitable thermal expansion coefficient and maintains competitive electrical conductivity due to the formation of a fine, stable chromia layer after 200 h in air. While prolonged high-temperature exposure enhances hardness without compromising ductility, hydrogen exposure induces embrittlement. Overall, this work positions Crofer 30 as a viable alternative to Crofer 22 for next-generation SOFC/SOEC interconnectors, supporting the development of more durable and efficient energy systems through advanced designs and accelerating the transition to green energy technologies.