Development of monolithic solid oxide fuel cells for Army applications

It is noted that the monolithic solid oxide fuel cell (MSOFC) is an advanced design concept in fuel cell technology that offers a compact and lightweight power system suitable for US Army applications. This design places the thin ceramic components of the fuel cell in a strong, lightweight honeycomb structure of small cells. The MSOFC power system concept is quite adaptable and offers substantial operating advantages in Army applications. The MSOFC offers a modular, multifuel design approach which provides a convenient method of achieving redundancy and enhancing system reliability. It will convert hydrogen or hydrocarbon fuels to dc power at low fuel consumption rates. The MSOFC also offers low operation and maintenance requirements, along with clean and quiet operating characteristics.