Abstract
Carbon emissions are known to cause decay of the Ozone layer in addition to creating pollutant, poisonous air. This has become a growing concern among scientists and engineers across the globe; if this issue is not addressed, it is likely that the Earth will suffer catastrophic consequences. One of the main culprits of these harmful carbon emissions is fuel combustion. Between vehicles, power plants, airplanes, and ships, the world consumes an extraordinary amount of oil and fuel which all contributes to the emissions problem. Therefore, it is crucial to develop alternative energy sources that minimize the impact on the environment. One such technology that is currently being researched, is the Solid Oxide Fuel Cell (SOFC). This is a relatively simple device that converts chemical energy into electrical energy with no harmful emissions. For these devices to work properly, they require an electrolyte material that has high ionic conductivity with good phase stability at a variety of temperatures. The research presented in this study will concentrate intensively on just one of the many candidates for SOFC electrolytes. 1 mol% CeO2 – 10 mol% Sc2O3 – 89 mol% ZrO2 manufactured by Treibacher Industries was analyzed to better understand its sintering properties, phase stability, and molecular structure. Sintering was performed at temperatures ranging from 900oC to 1600oC and the shrinkage, density and porosity were examined for each temperature. Raman Spectroscopy and X-Ray Powder Diffraction were also conducted for comparison with other known compositions to see if the powder undergoes any phase transitions or instability.
Thesis Completion
2018
Semester
Fall
Thesis Chair/Advisor
Orlovskaya, Nina
Degree
Bachelor Science in Aerospace Engineering (B.S.A.E.)
College
College of Engineering and Computer Science
Department
Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering
Degree Program
Aerospace Engineering
Location
Orlando (Main) Campus
Language
English
Access Status
Open Access
Release Date
12-1-2018
Recommended Citation
Assuncao, Amanda K., "Optimal Sintering Temperature of Ceria-doped Scandia Stabilized Zirconia for Use in Solid Oxide Fuel Cells" (2018). Honors Undergraduate Theses. 408.
https://stars.library.ucf.edu/honorstheses/408
Included in
Ceramic Materials Commons, Energy Systems Commons, Environmental Engineering Commons, Manufacturing Commons, Other Materials Science and Engineering Commons, Propulsion and Power Commons, Structures and Materials Commons