Technology

Solid oxide cell technology

A solid oxide cell is an electrochemical device that is able to convert the chemical energy stored in fuels directly into electricity and heat and vice versa.

As a solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC), electricity is generated without any moving parts at efficiencies far higher than combustion engines. The heat generated in the process is of relatively high temperature and can be used for heating or industrial processes, in this way total energy efficiencies can be reached close to a hundred percent.

The cells make use of a ceramic electrolyte that can transfer oxygen ions from the cathode towards the anode, where they react with fuel to form water (and carbon dioxide if hydrocarbon fuels are used).

Circonica’s revolutionary production technology is based on a design which can be produced with standard industrial ceramic production technologies.

The design allows the use of highly industrialised ceramic manufacturing processes to produce the individual cell components and allows outsourced OEM production.

Our advantages

In addition to all the benefits of other fuel- and electrolyzer cells the Circonica design is also cost-effective and robust.

Cost-effective

Highly industrialised and proven processes are used for the production of our cells to lower the investment cost.

Fuel-flexible

Due to the high operating temperatures of these cells they can convert most conventional- and future-fuels directly into electricity and heat.

Reliable

State-of-the-art materials are used to make sure the cells are able to provide power 24/7 for tens of thousands of hours.

Efficient

Fuel cell technology is able to reach high electrical efficiencies of 60% and total efficiencies of 95% and above when the heat is also put to good use.

Carbon neutral

Electricity and heat with net-zero carbon emissions if clean fuels are used such as hydrogen, e-fuels or biogas.

Clean energy

Without combustion a large part of the emissions that conventional generators produce including nitrous oxides (NOx) and particulate matter are avoided.

Integration potential

The heat produced in our cells is of a very high temperature and can be useful for integration into industrial processes or heating.

Future proof

The cells are ready for use in natural gas grids now, and can run on emerging fuels in the future with little to no changes needed.

Want to learn more?

Get in touch!