Details of Grant 

EPSRC Reference:	GR/L59252/01
Title:	OPTIMISATION OF SOFC ANODES FOR DIRECT METHANE OXIDATION AND LOWER TEMPERATURES OF OPERATION
Principal Investigator:	Irvine, Professor J
Other Investigators:
Researcher Co-Investigators:
Project Partners:
Department:	Chemistry
Organisation:	University of St Andrews
Scheme:	Standard Research (Pre-FEC)
Starts:	01 September 1997	Ends:	31 January 2001	Value (£):	163,340
EPSRC Research Topic Classifications:
EPSRC Industrial Sector Classifications:	Energy
Related Grants:
Panel History:
Summary on Grant Application Form
In recent years, we have developed an active programme of research targetted at the development of novel oxide SOFC anodes for direct methane oxidation. In this programme we seek to optimise the performance of two classes of oxide anodes based on the fluorite and perovskite structures. Both systems exhibit the potential for high electronic and oxide-ion conductivity and for appropriate catalytic activity, especially for compostions containing high Ti concentrations. By appropriate modification and control of composition, we seek to optimise electronic conductivity in the zirconia-fluorite system and to optimise ioinic conductivity in the perovskite systems. Fundamental studies utliising neutron powder diffraction and EXAFS will allow a deeper understanding of the relevant defect and structural chemistry and so will assist in materials optimisation. The electrochemical properties of these anodes will be investigated by impendance and polarisation measurements and their catalytic activities assessed by both screening and in situ electrocatalytic studies. The results from the electrical and catalytic investigation will be utilised to direct further optimisation of composition. Materials which exhibit the most promising characterisation will be tested using the BG SOFC testing system under hydogen, methane and natural gas fuel gases.
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Organisation Website:	http://www.st-and.ac.uk