Thickness variations in electrolytes for planar solid oxide fuel cells

Shape uniformity is one of the key factors for determining the performance of planar solid oxide fuel cells. Three parameters must be considered to acquire a full picture of shape uniformity: the extent of warpage, surface roughness and thickness variations. The present study examines the thickness variations of yttria-stabilized zirconia electrolytes after sintering. An optical technique has been successfully developed to determine the thickness variations, which are closely related to microstructure uniformity. A warm isostatic pressing lamination technique can be used to reduce thickness variations.