Evaluation of micro solid oxide fuel cell technology

Abstract

Micro solid oxide fuel cells are one type of fuel cell being researched for use in portable electronic devices or applications requiring portable power. This emerging technology combines fuel cell technology with microfabrication technology to achieve a micro sized fuel cell on a small silicon die. The potential exists for outperforming standard battery technology by an order of magnitude. A review of micro solid oxide fuel cell technology and its main technical challenges is done. Critical evaluation of the energy density of the micro solid oxide fuel cell based on assumptions of efficiency and packaging is made. Discussion of possible use models of micro solid oxide fuel cells and outside factors affecting their adoption by both military and consumer markets is given. A survey of intellectual property related to the field is performed, along with a summary of companies active in the area. A rough cost model for production and brief commercialization outlook is presented.