FuelCell Energy, Inc.
Stable electrolyte matrix for molten carbonate fuel cells

Abstract:

An electrolyte matrix for use with molten carbonate fuel cells having an enhanced stability and lifetime is provided. The electrolyte matrix includes lithium aluminate as a support material and a coarsening inhibitor. The coarsening inhibitor may be in the form of discrete particles or a dopant present in the support material. The coarsening inhibitor may include MnO.sub.2, Mn.sub.2O.sub.3, TiO.sub.2, ZrO.sub.2, Fe.sub.2O.sub.3, LiFe.sub.2O.sub.3, or mixtures thereof. The coarsening inhibitor prevents the formation of large pores in the electrolyte matrix during operation of the fuel cell, increasing the performance and the service lifetime of the electrolyte matrix.