Electrophoretically deposited nano TiO2/Ag powder to protect fuel cell Ni cathode from dissolution in molten carbonate

This study presents a promising method for improving the performance of Molten Carbonate Fuel Cell (MCFC) and decreasing the solubility of nickel cathode in the harsh environment of molten carbonate electrolyte. The functional properties of a porous nickel cathode produced by tape casting and reinforced with Ni foam were enhanced by electrophoretic deposition (EPD) of TiO 2 /Ag particles. The deposition parameters were optimized, and the coated cathode was characterized using multiple techniques, including SEM and EDS. The influence of the deposited TiO 2 /Ag particles was evaluated with electrical conductivity tests, solubility measurements, and single-cell performance tests. The obtained results demonstrate a significant improvement in cell efficiency, with power output increasing from 90 mW/cm 2 for the reference Ni cathode to 100 mW/cm 2 for the modified cathode. Furthermore, cathode solubility was reduced by 300%. These findings suggest that the EPD method has strong potential for practical application and novelty based on advancing MCFC performance. • TiO 2 /Ag composite powder deposition on porous nickel by the EPD method • The fuel cell efficiency and cathode chemical stability were increased • Increased electrical conductivity of porous nickel by 100%