This specific tri-layer structure (Ni-YSZ | YSZ | GDC) is the "half-cell" foundation for high-performance intermediate-temperature SOFCs. By stopping at the GDC (Gadolinium-doped Ceria) layer, you have essentially created a protected electrolyte surface ready for the deposition of a Cobalt-based cathode (like LSC or LSCF).

The primary engineering challenge with this stack is maintaining the mechanical integrity of the thin functional layers atop the thick, porous support.

Ni-YSZ Anode Support (~500–1000 um): It provides the mechanical integrity of the cell. Its porosity is usually 30-40% after reduction of NiO to Ni. It should note that the reduction step (typically 5% H2 in Ar or N2) is gradual to prevent micro-cracking of the thin electrolyte above it.

GDC pellets are frequently used as substrates to test the Area Specific Resistance (ASR) of new electrode materials (e.g., LSCF or SSC). By screen-printing the same electrode on both sides of a dense GDC pellet, you can use Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS) to isolate electrode performance without the complexity of a full fuel cell.

YSZ Electrolyte (5–20 um): It mainly act as a pure oxygen ion conductor with near-zero electronic conductivity. Even though GDC has higher conductivity, YSZ is used as the main electrolyte to prevent the "electronic leak" (internal short circuit) that occurs if GDC is exposed to the reducing atmosphere of the anode.

GDC Buffer Layer (1–5 um): It is mainly used to prevent the formation of SrZrO3. LSC and YSZ react at sintering temperatures (>900$°C) to form a highly resistive insulating layer. The GDC acts as a chemical barrier. It must be dense enough to block Sr diffusion but thin enough to keep ohmic resistance low.

Part Number	CSOFECASNYG (C-SOFEC-AS-NYG)
Cell Composition	NiO-YSZ (5cm * 5cm, T=400 um) 8YSZ (5cm * 5cm, T=3 um) GDC (5cm * 5 cm, T=3 um)
Anode Support Size	(1) Button Disk: D20 mm (2) Button Disk: D25 mm (3) Planar Sheet: 5cm * 5cm
Package Grade	1 pcs/pack (bulk quantity can be supplied upon request and certain discount will be applied)

References:

1. Q. L. Liu, et al., Anode-supported solid oxide fuel cell with yttria-stabilized zirconia/gadolinia-doped ceria bilalyer electrolyte prepared by wet ceramic co-sintering process, J. Power Sources, 2006, 162, 1036-1042.
2. W. Wu, et al., Influence of Deposition Temperature of GDC Interlayer Deposited by RF Magnetron Sputtering on Anode-Supported SOFC, Fuel Cells., 2014, 14, 171-176.