Abstract:

Three-dimensional (3D) printing, also known as additive manufacturing technology, is a method of producing three-dimensional objects using a layer-by-layer printing method that involves machinery, computers, numerical control, materials, and other technologies. It has been widely used in the areas of aerospace, biomedical, electronic, energy, and chemical industries. This paper primarily introduces several common 3D printing technologies, with a focus on the 3D printing of cathodes, anodes, electrolytes, and cell stacks for solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs). It is thought to improve a SOFC's electrochemical performance by tailoring its microstructure, specific surface area, or composition distribution. The structural design of monolithic stack support is expected to improve the internal transport behavior of cell stacks. Using a 3D printing method, the SOFC stack preparation process can be simplified and optimized, or even integrated into one step, avoiding material mismatch caused by a large number of joints and assemblies and improving the stability and service life of the cell stack. 3D printing also provides distinct advantages in the design and preparation of SOFC stack auxiliary systems, as well as significant potential in the integrated preparation of stack components and stacks. Furthermore, the technical challenges of 3D printing technologies in the SOFC field are highlighted. In addition, some solutions to the problems and deficiencies of SOFCs prepared using the 3D printing method are proposed. The research and development of high-resolution ceramic 3D printing technologies, the innovations and developments of fuel cell slurry, and the manufacturing of hybrid and multi-material 3D printers could all become important directions for resolving existing problems.

Key words: 3D printing, photocuring, inkjet printing, solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC), cell stack