Performance deviation analysis and reliability improvement during experimental development of lab-scale solid oxide single cells

Solid oxide electrochemical cells (SOCs), elevated-temperature energy storage and conversion devices, are anticipated to play a pivotal role in future sustainable energy systems. Considerable research efforts have been devoted to this dynamic field, encompassing both lab-scale investigations and industrial exploration. However, a serious knowledge gap persists between laboratory development and industrial-scale application. One possible explanation is the large deviation that exists in the reported cell performances among different research groups. The errors introduced by complex experimental processes make it a significant challenge to distinguish the truly promising cell materials, fabrication techniques, and device systems. Thus, improving the reliability of cell performance obtained from laboratory-scale investigations is imperative. In this work, we begin by summarizing various parameters that can influence cell performance, including cell configurations, sealing materials and ways, current collection materials and techniques, current–voltage polarization test methods, and operation conditions. Then, their potential impacts on button cell performance are comprehensively reviewed and discussed. Finally, strategies to enhance the reliability of the cell performance are suggested. We believe that this specific article will offer valuable guidance for the future development of SOCs at the lab scale, while also furnishing meaningful information to promote industrial applications.