Solid Oxide Fuel Cell Task (SOFC-TASK)

This task advances the technology readiness level (TRL) of solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) power system technology for Mars applications, specifically for cis-Mars transits, Mars landers and Mars surface power.  Mars missions have emphasized the mass and energy savings resulting with maintaining cryogenic methane (CH4) propellant compared to cryogenic hydrogen (H2) propellant. Converting chemicals into electrical power, fuel cell power systems has proven successful in many applications.  The most mature technology for space applications is the low temperature proton exchange membrane (LT-PEM) fuel cell electrolyte chemistry.  However, this technology is not directly compatible with hydrocarbon fuels (e.g. CH4), such as those needed for Mars, and requires additional systems to process hydrocarbons and purify the resulting hydrogen before it can produce electrical power.  This project will address key technology gaps of electrochemically reacting CH4 and LOX to generate electricity for space applications, specifically for Mars power and surface power needs.   The proposed solution is an advanced SOFC system for power generation directly from CH4/LOX propellants. This can allow the use of CH4 or other hydrocarbons and can be thermally balanced at steady state for minimal external thermal management.  This system has the potential to meet NASA's key performance metrics, including specific power, long service life, and multi-cycle capability.  This activity also leverages lessons learned through past Small Business Innovation and Research (SBIR) grants to advance a required technology for Mars power applications. This task consists of an environmental test campaign of a Mars-focused SOFC power system test article, which includes the Device Under Test (DUT) and the Ground Support Equipment (GSE). The turn-key, autonomous test article will be functionally verified by the vendor prior to delivery to JSC. Multiple test articles may undergo testing. This testing incorporates operational performance testing and environmental testing representing an anticipated Mars mission consisting of a performance testing in a laboratory environment, vibration, shock, and thermal vacuum testing. Thermal vacuum testing consists of a pressure and temperature profile according to a potential Mars mission scenario that involves a start in orbit through landing and ground operation. 

​This project addresses key technology gaps of electrochemically reacting CH4 and LOX to generate electricity for space applications, specifically for Mars power and surface power needs. The most mature technology for space applications is the low temperature proton exchange membrane (LT-PEM) fuel cell electrolyte chemistry.  However, this technology is not directly compatible with hydrocarbon fuels (e.g. CH4), such as those needed for Mars, and requires additional systems to process hydrocarbons and purify the resulting hydrogen before it can produce electrical power.  ​The proposed solution is an advanced SOFC system for power generation directly from CH4/LOX propellants which allows the use of CH4 or other hydrocarbons and can be thermally balanced at steady state for minimal external thermal management.  This system potentially meets NASA's key performance metrics, including specific power, long service life, and multi-cycle capability.  This activity also leverages lessons learned through past Small Business Innovation and Research (SBIR) grants to advance a required technology for Mars power applications.

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 2) — the most realistic path in is NASA SBIR/STTR, which funds small businesses and research institutions to develop technology aligned with NASA's needs (equity-free, phased funding). Check whether a current SBIR/STTR solicitation topic overlaps with this project's technology area, or contact the project directly (above) to ask.

None of these are guaranteed paths for this specific project — TechPort itself doesn't have an "apply" button. Reaching out to the contact(s) above with a specific question is usually the fastest way to find out what's actually open.