NexTech Materials announces new program on SOFC interconnect coating processes
Lewis Center, OH –NexTech Materials, Ltd. announces its selection for a U.S. Department of Energy Phase I SBIR Award on “Manufacturing Analysis of SOFC Interconnect Coating Processes.” In this effort, NexTech’s Commercial Services Division will perform a techno-economic analysis of oxide coating processes for the metallic interconnects of solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) stacks, leveraging proprietary materials and process technology.
NexTech, which has developed several interconnect coating processes, will evaluate these methods independently and in collaboration with SOFC developers, to determine which are best suited to large-scale manufacturing. Interconnect coatings are essential for long-term stable operation of SOFCs, providing protection against corrosion by process gases and seal materials, while maintaining electrical contact between cells in the stack. The coatings must be stable for 5,000 to 40,000 hours to meet the demands of mobile and stationary applications. Future activities will focus on removing technical barriers to scale-up, performing coating trials on production-intent equipment and interconnects, and demonstrating interconnect performance in collaboration with SOFC developers in the DOE SECA program and other manufacturers world-wide.
Mr. Bill Dawson, NexTech’s CEO, stated, “This award highlights the technical strength of our Commercial Services business. Our team’s design-neutrality, coupled with NexTech’s vertical integration from raw materials to volume-manufactured components is unique in our markets. We are thrilled to have this award–it will allow NexTech to continue to offer clients access to market-leading materials and process technology.”
Dr. Matthew Seabaugh, Director of Commercial Services, commented “This award marks an important milestone in NexTech’s Commercial Services growth. The technical and economic analysis outlined in this program will allow us to provide even better solutions to our customers. It will allow us to build on our track record of innovation and of providing value-added solutions to developers of all sizes.”
About NexTech Materials
NexTech’s vision is to be a global leader in the development and manufacturing of innovative products for energy and environmental markets. NexTech is a leading developer and supplier of materials, components and services for the fuel cell industry and is dedicated to reducing the manufacturing and operating costs of fuel cells and other electrochemical devices. NexTech’s customers are located in over 35 countries and include leading researchers, developers and manufacturers throughout the world. NexTech Materials, Ltd. was founded as a privately held company in 1994 and has grown into one of Ohio’s leading technology companies. NexTech recently expanded its manufacturing and R&D facilities located in Lewis Center Ohio. NexTech has many products in the pipeline including fuel cell stacks for military and residential power applications, sensors for gas detection and control systems, catalysts for energy conversion systems, and membranes for gas separation devices. www.nextechmaterials.com
