Oxidation Behavior of Ferritic Stainless Steels for SOECs
As a participant of the NOUVEAU project (https://www.nouveau-project.eu/), our institute investigates the oxidation behavior of general-purpose ferritic stainless steels under solid oxide electrolyzer cell (SOEC) operating conditions. While other partners focus on other cell elements and coating development, our work centers on understanding the fundamental oxidation mechanisms and dependence of oxidation behaviour on material composition and environment.
We study widely available steel grades such as AISI 441 and AISI 430 to assess their potential as cost-effective materials for metallic SOEC components. Through controlled oxidation experiments, we evaluate oxidation kinetics, scale morphology, time evolving of the scale and the role of coatings in enhancing high-temperature performance and durability.
By examining steels from different production batches, we also capture the influence of minor alloying elements and compositional variations. This approach provides valuable insight into how subtle chemical differences can alter oxidation resistance and surface evolution during operation.
Our findings contribute to the development of practical design and processing guidelines for ferritic stainless steels, highlighting how alloy composition, surface treatments, and coating approaches can improve oxidation resistance and durability. By connecting fundamental insights with material performance, this work supports the broader goal of creating SOEC systems that are both reliable and cost-effective.
Dr.-Ing. Dmitry Naumenko
Group leader “High Temperature Corrosion and Corrosion Protection” (IMD-1)
- Institute of Energy Materials and Devices (IMD)
- Structure and Function of Materials (IMD-1)
Room 4c