State of the art, challenges and perspective on laser machined corrugated interfaces for solid oxide cells and devices

Abstract Solid oxide cells (SOCs) are among the most efficient energy conversion technologies available. A recent strategy to enhance their performance involves engineering the structure of SOC components from the microscale to the mesoscale. One promising method to achieve this is through advanced laser ceramic processing techniques. These approaches are also highly relevant to other energy technologies, such as solid-state batteries and membranes, that aim to improve energy generation and conversion efficiency. By applying laser machining, it is possible to precisely control the mesoscale structure of SOC components, particularly by tailoring the interfaces between electrodes and the electrolyte. This structural optimization can significantly reduce the activation component of the resistance of the cell approximately in the same proportion to the increase in the electrochemically active volume. Simultaneously, enlarging the electrolyte surface area leads to a reduction in ohmic resistance, roughly proportional to the increase in the interfacial area. This represents a novel SOC design concept that, in theory, could improve device performance by a factor of four. It also offers potential benefits such as increased durability and lower operating temperatures. In this perspective, we summarize the key theoretical and experimental advances made in this area and outline future directions for research and development.