Blasch Precision Ceramics proposes a novel manufacturing technology that could dramatically reduce this cost.
None are cost-effective.
The solid flame moves down the cylinder, creating the product as it goes. The project is risky because there are many process variables and almost no available data, which has detered private investment. Because the process is fast, uses little added energy and has no environmentally harmful emissions, Blasch anticipates being able to produce SOFC cathode materials at a fraction of the current cost. As a result, the cost of SOFC cathode units could be cut by more than half, dramatically reducing the overall cost of SOFC installations and enabling more widespread use of the technology.