The Topsoe Perspective: From Electrode Nanostructures to MW Scaled SOEC Systems

• Published in: ECS transactions 2023-05, Vol.111 (6), p.1125-1133
• Main Authors: Hauch, Anne, Blennow, Peter Gustav, Dalby, Kim N., Drasbæk, Daniel Bovin, Heiredal-Clausen, Thomas, Padinjarethil, Aiswarya Krishnakumar, Perin, Giovanni, Rass-Hansen, Jeppe, Sala, Elena Marzia, Tiruvalam, Ramchandra
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 1938-5862; 1938-6737
• DOI: 10.1149/11106.1125ecst

This paper provides an overview of Topsoe’s expertise, results, and initiatives in the field of solid oxide electrolysis cell (SOEC) technology. Topsoe’s expertise span from studies of materials’ properties, electrode nanostructures via electron microscopy, electrochemical performance of cells and stacks via impedance spectroscopy, to the design of stacks and MW-sized systems, and towards commercialization of our Topsoe SOEC electrolyzer plants. A short up-date on the newly initiated activities on production facilities for up-scaling of SOEC cells and stack production is included. The paper will review key challenges for state-of-the-art SOEC cells and stacks with a focus on electrochemical performance and durability, and microstructural integrity required for a commercially viable SOEC technology. Topsoe has the expertise in a variety of relevant downstream process; however, the work presented here will focus on the steam electrolysis application of SOEC for generating green hydrogen e.g., for ammonia production.