Nickel Oxide (NiO, >99.9%) Powder as Electrode Precursor for SOFC/SOEC, 100 or 500 g/bottle, CSOFECEPNiO

In both Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (SOFC) and Solid Oxide Electrolysis Cells (SOEC), Nickel Oxide (NiO) powder is the fundamental precursor for the "hydrogen electrode." While NiO is a ceramic insulator, it is reduced in situ to metallic Nickel (Ni) during the first heating cycle, transforming into the primary catalyst for either splitting water (SOEC) or oxidizing hydrogen (SOFC).

The behavior of the Ni phase derived from NiO changes depending on the mode of operation: (1) SOFC Mode (Fuel Cell): Catalysis: Acts as a catalyst for H2 oxidation and internal reforming of hydrocarbons (like CH4). Conductivity: Provides a continuous metallic path for electron transport to the current collector. (2) SOEC Mode (Electrolysis): Water Splitting: Catalyzes the reduction of steam or CO2. Coking Resistance: In CO-electrolysis, the morphology of the Ni (determined by the original NiO particle size) is critical to prevent carbon fibers from "lifting" the Ni particles and destroying the electrode.

References:

1. M. B. Mogensen, et al., Ni migration in solid oxide cell electrodes: Review and revised hypothesis, Fuel Cells, 2021, 21, 415-429. 
2. A. Hauch, et al., Ni/YSZ electrodes structures optimized for increased electrolysis performance and durability, Solid State Ionics, 2016, 293, 27-36.