【Technology Introduction】
NARI has developed materials for high-temperature oxidation-resistant ceramic protective film as metallic interconnect coating. With doping trace amounts of lanthanum (La) in (Mn,Co)₃O₄, effectual modification can be achieved. It helps inhibit pore formation in (Mn, Co)₃O₄ during long-term operation, keeps the Mn/Co ratio, and prolongs the service of protective coatings. Through manufacturing processes such as vacuum magnetron sputtering, atmospheric plasma spraying, or aerosol deposition to coat a protective film at the surface of the stainless steel substrate, barriers against chromium or oxygen diffusion can be formed. Adopted in metallic interconnect coating for solid oxide fuel cells (SOFC), single or multiple layers can be deposited depending on the required protective film thickness. With the addition of La, it is effective in extending the lifetime of steel and improving the durability of high-temperature fuel cell components.


Figure 1.Stainless steel substrate coated with modified MCO protective film, effectively suppressing oxide scale growth and inhibiting pore formation


Figure 2.Metallic interconnect coated with modified MCO protective film, serving in a high-temperature environment, consistently exhibits excellent electrical conductivity

【Project Planning/Technology Application】
This technology has been patented and awarded a bronze medal in the invention competition of the 2023 Taiwan Innovation Technology Expo (TIE). The associated technologies have been adopted to implement a research project and a technical service project by contracts from a domestic company. The high-temperature oxidation-resistant metallic interconnect with ceramic protective coating is a key component in solid oxide fuel cell. The research results effectively improve the durability of the metallic interconnect with good conductivity at high temperature, which plays a key role in the application of solid oxide fuel cell technology.

【Future Arrangements】
Currently, developed countries are actively investing in the development of technologies for the SOFC power generation systems, one of the new energy sources. Among critical components in the system, coated metallic interconnect accounts for about 15-20% cost of the entire system. Major SOFC/SOEC manufacturers have been deploying the MCO protective films in stacks. NARI has developed MCO modification methods and protective film compositions to increase coating protectiveness and extend service lifetime. It is estimated to reduce the purchase cost of interconnect by 90%, and is expected to reach a market output value of US$80 million (according to the estimated output value of SOFC in 2028, US$1.5 billion). Relevant research results have been patented and technical collaboration has been developed with domestic industry. It is expected that the products will be promoted to the international industrial chain.
 
[Contact Information]
Name: Hui-Ping Tseng
Tel: 886-03-4711400 ext. 6777
E-mail：hueiping@nari.org.tw