A comprehensive review on the progress and evaluation of metal supported solid oxide fuel cells (MS-SOFC)

The exponentially increasing over utilization and global scarcity of fossil fuels have driven researchers to explore alternative energy resources for efficient power generation with minimal emission and cost-effectiveness. Among various types of fuel cells, solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) have been considered to be a commercially viable option for high power energy conversion across wide range of applications. Particularly, metal supported solid oxide fuel cells (MS-SOCs) offer various advantages compared to conventional ceramic SOFCs, including rapid start-up, enhanced mechanical stability over prolonged operation, low manufacturing cost, tolerance to thermal cycles and high electrochemical performance. Scientists have studied the development of various cell designs with various fabrication techniques and materials tailored to different components of the fuel cell structure. Despite of advance substantial research progress, several critical problems material degradation, interfacial instability, and performance loss, appear to hinder the development and operation of MS-SOFCs, affecting long term durability and commercial deployment of MS-SOFCs. This review article encapsulates the latest research and advancements in MS-SOFC technologies, including innovations in cell design, material development, and strategies to mitigate degradation mechanisms. Additionally, it also highlights current approaches aimed at enhancing the mechanical integrity and electrochemical performance of MS-SOFCs, offering insights into future research directions.