Advanced mixed ionic electronic conducting (MIEC) perovskites play an important role in many electrochemical systems for advanced energy technologies. They are major components in such devices as solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs), oxygen separation membranes, chemical sensors and catalysts. In addition to energy technology, the development of these multifunctional materials is of crucial importance for transportation, aerospace engineering, and electronics. The use of these materials as chemical sensors is also important for anti-terrorism initiatives. The present book discusses progress and problems in the development of ionic, electronic, and MIEC materials as active materials in advanced energy systems; the development and design of solid-oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) for next-generation vehicles, chemical sensors and oxygen separation membranes; and identifies directions for future research, such as conducting mechanisms, stability and reliability of devices, degradation problems, crystal structure, classification of phase transitions exhibited by the materials.

Ceramic fuel cells, commonly known as solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs), have been under development for a broad range of electric power generation applications. The most attractive feature of the SOFC is its clean and efficient production of electricity from a variety of fuels. The SOFC has the potential to be manufactured and operated cost-effectively. The widening interest in this technology, thus, arises from the continuing need to develop cleaner and more efficient means of converting energy sources into useful forms.This topical book provides a comprehensive treatise on solid oxide fuel cells and succeeds successfully in filling the gap in the market for a reference book in this field. Directed towards scientists, engineers, and technical managers working with SOFCs as well as ceramic devices based on conducting materials, and in related fields, the book will also be invaluable as a textbook for science and engineering courses.

This reference book addresses the evolution of materials for both oxygen and hydrogen transport membranes and offers strategies for their fabrication as well as their subsequent incorporation into catalytic membrane reactors. Other chapters deal with, e.g., engineering design and scale-up issues, strategies for preparation of supported thin-film membranes, or interfacial kinetic and mass transfer issues. A must for materials scientists, chemists, chemical engineers and electrochemists interested in advanced chemical processing.