A study of a commercially available anode-supported 2R-Cell™ SOFC via synchrotron radiation XAFS and electrochemical characterization

Solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) represent a promising pathway toward efficient and low-emission energy conversion technologies. This study investigates the integrated electrochemical and synchrotron-based characterization of a commercially manufactured anode-supported SOFC evaluated at laboratory (button-cell) scale (2R-Cell™), developed by Fiaxell SOFC Technologies. Microstructural analysis was conducted using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) combined with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS). This assessment enabled direct observation of the engineered anode composed of Ni–8YSZ microspheres forming low-tortuosity channels, as well as a dense 8YSZ electrolyte stabilized by a GDC buffer layer. Synchrotron-based X-ray fluorescence (XRF) mapping confirmed the preservation of multilayer chemical integrity after operation under reducing conditions. X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS), including XANES and EXAFS, was employed at the Ni, Zr, Fe, and Sr K-edges to monitor redox behavior and structural evolution. The Ni spectra revealed partial and spatially heterogeneous reductions NiO to Ni 0 at 800 °C, while the Zr and Fe spectra showed negligible changes, indicating stability of the electrolyte and cathode. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) under H 2 /N 2 operation further validated the low polarization resistance and robust performance of the cell architecture. These results demonstrate the electrochemical resilience and microstructural integrity of the 2R-Cell™, highlighting its suitability for advanced hydrogen-fueled SOFC applications. • Operando structural and electrochemical analysis of a commercial SOFC at button-cell scale. • Synchrotron XAFS reveals heterogeneous and partial NiO-to-Ni reduction at 800 °C. • Electrolyte and cathode remain structurally stable under H 2 operation. • Engineered anode microstructure preserved after initial reduction.