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Completed TRL 3 (started at 2, targeting 3)
Solid oxide electrolysis (SOE) can split the Martian atmosphere, primarily comprised of CO2, into CO and O2. Of the three layers that make up an SOE cell, the cathode experiences oxidation which results in a shorter life span, lower O2 production rate, and parasitic power. NASA’s current SOE stack on the Mars Oxygen ISRU Experiment (MOXIE) utilizes a CO recycle stream to mitigate oxidation, introducing a more complex balance of plant. This project is proposing novel cathode development using inherently oxidation resistant perovskite materials in combination with Ru as a highly active electrocatalyst. We will fabricate button cells using the novel cathode layer and conduct testing in a gas composition that mimics the Martian atmosphere.
As NASA continues the Moon-to-Mars program, oxygen will be required for life support. We will produce SOE cells that don’t require CO recycling, lowering overall system mass by up to 3 % and increasing system reliability, while still maintaining high reaction kinetics, allowing us to meet the same O2 production rate, 0.03 g/hr/cm2, requirements as MOXIE.
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