This paper describes the design and validation of an ion transport membrane device which provides point of use ultra high purity oxygen at pressures as high as 2 MPa. This pressure is achieved via single stage electrochemical compression and is sufficient for distribution line and storage tank requirements. The benefits of this technology can greatly reduce energy required for multi-stage mechanical compression and the need and cost of cylinder systems.

Planar designs for SOFC's and oxygen separation devices typically involve fabrication of interconnects and electrolyte plates separately. After the components are manufactured they are typically joined together to form a stack. For pressurized oxygen production a mechanical endload must be applied to the stack to offset the internal oxygen pressure in order to prevent the development of leaks. Product gage pressures of 1 and 2 MPa could require 10 kN and 20 kN endloads respectively (slightly over 1 and 2 tons respectively). Alternatively, by co-sintering the electrochemical stack, these mechanical loads can be internally constrained eliminating the need for external mechanical loading systems.

This paper describes an innovative approach to develop a separation device capable of producing high pressure pure oxygen without the use of a counter balancing endload. In this approach all the functional layers are cosintered to form a mechanically robust device with excellent contact between the each layer enabling the production of pressurized oxygen without a mechanical endload. The oxygen pressure is limited by the design and strength of the bond between the porous supports and dense channeled layers.