Analysis of the evolution of complex stress distribution patterns in the electrolyte of solid oxide cells

Solid oxide cells (SOC) based on gadolinia-doped ceria (GDC) offer higher ionic conductivity and hence improved performance, but their operational lifetime is compromised by stress-induced crack formation within their multilayer electrolyte. To understand the origins of the cracks, we propose a Laue microdiffraction experiment at BM32 to map the stress distribution in the electrolyte layers under thermal and electrochemical conditions mimicking real-world application. The detailed understanding of the forces arising between the different layers of the electrolyte will allow us to identify the factors contributing to crack formation and propagation. Furthermore, examining differently prepared SOC half-cells will allow us to understand the effects of processing and microstructure on the residual stress and hence optimize cell fabrication to prevent crack formation, ultimately advancing the feasibility of large-scale hydrogen production and sustainable energy conversion.