High temperature ceramic joint obtained through thermal spraying

The solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) has become a very attractive energy production means for the future. Many countries are involved in the development of such generators despite the many technological barriers which must be broken to allow for their commercialization. A new generation of ceramic joints functioning at 900° Celcius and developed by the CEA Ripault, allow for the solving of tightness issues surrounding such systems. A ceramic matrix composite joint loaded with molten ceramic or glass particles is produced through plasma spraying on one or both surfaces to be assembled: the interstices between the two parts are thus filled which creates a gas-tight barrier. Both the leakage rate and the adherence of the material on its support have been successfully characterized.