Recent advances and future prospects in exsolution technology for solid oxide cells

Abstract

Metal-oxide heterogeneous catalysts, with their tunable physical and chemical properties, are emerging as crucial components in sustainable energy conversion technologies. Recent advancements in top-down exsolution techniques, featuring unique embedded structures and nanostructured metal-oxide heterointerfaces, have shown significant potential in solid oxide cells (SOCs). This review provides a comprehensive overview of these developments, emphasizing the mechanisms driving nanoparticle exsolution from oxide matrices. The integration of advanced in-situ characterization techniques, which enable real-time observation of physicochemical changes during exsolution and electrochemical processes, is introduced. Furthermore, the practical applications of exsolved oxides in SOCs are discussed, highlighting their versatility in both fuel cell and electrolysis cell operations. Finally, future research directions and challenges are outlined, underscoring the need for ongoing innovation to unlock the further potential of exsolution technology in the commercialization of SOCs.