Single cells (SOFC-SOEC) test bench

The SOFC–SOEC single-cell test bench, developed within the PNRR NEST – Spoke 3 framework (cascade call BioCO2Meth), is an advanced experimental facility for the characterisation and operation of solid oxide cells in both fuel cell (SOFC) and electrolysis (SOEC) modes.

The system enables controlled testing under a wide range of operating conditions, including temperatures up to 1000 °C and flexible gas compositions. The bench is equipped with a multi-line gas supply system (up to 13 mass flow controllers) allowing the preparation of complex mixtures (H2, CO, CO2, CH4, NH3, N2), as well as humidified streams for electrolysis operation.

In SOFC mode, the facility supports performance characterisation through polarization curves and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), as well as studies on fuel flexibility, including hydrogen, methane, syngas and simulated biogas. It also enables investigation of degradation and contaminant tolerance under realistic conditions.