Urals Scientists Develop Solid Oxide Fuel Cell Technology
The Institute of High Temperature Electrochemistry of the Urals Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences has developed a chemical electric power source for Gazprom. It will be used for the cathode corrosion protection of the pipeline system.
In addition to being used on pipelines, the innovation has a great potential in the consumer market. The Institute informed RusBusinessNews that the solid oxide fuel cell technology is based on the electric burning of natural gas and is accompanied by release of energy that can be used for heating of cottages and houses which are remote from central services.
The capacity of a source may vary from 150 to 3,000 Watt. This will be in demand in those regions where there are gas deposits and the construction of power generating capacities is inexpedient. The cell can use spirit, paraffin, or any other flammable fluid which makes it possible to use it as a portable generator.
The manufacturing cost of fuel cells in a laboratory setting amounts to 80 to 100 thousand roubles. Currently the Institute’s management is carrying out negotiations with JSC Chepetsky Mechanical Plant in the town of Glazov on the establishment of batch production which would significantly reduce the cost of the new product.
