The CNH2 and the UCLM promote the SYMPHONY project for the development of advanced materials in solid oxide cells

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Last updated on 18 March, 2026

The National Hydrogen Centre (CNH2), in collaboration with the UCLM, has launched the SYMPHONY project (Synergistic design of advanced materials for symmetrical SOFCs adapted to alternative fuels), funded under the 2024 Scientific Research and Technology Transfer Project Grants call, co-financed by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), with file number SBPLY/24/180225/000095.

The SYMPHONY project focuses on developing new solutions to improve the efficiency and durability of solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) and their interconnectors, key components in electrochemical energy conversion systems. These technologies play a fundamental role in the energy transition, especially in applications related to the use of alternative fuels and high-efficiency energy generation.

The main objective of the project is to optimise the design and processing of these devices through advances in the ceramic and metallic materials used, thereby contributing to improving the performance, reliability and service life of SOFCs and facilitating their future implementation on an industrial scale.

The project is structured into four work packages:

1) Design and manufacture of SOFC system components

2) Characterisation of symmetrical cells and interconnectors

3) Manufacture and evaluation of short stacks

4) Protection and dissemination of results

A consortium with complementary capabilities

The consortium comprises two institutions with a solid track record of collaboration and complementary scientific and technological capabilities. This strategic alliance allows the challenge to be addressed from a comprehensive perspective, ranging from fundamental scientific research to its potential industrial application and technology transfer.

Research team

The project is led by Roberto Campana, scientific director of CNH2, who acts as Principal Investigator. The CNH2 research team is made up of professionals from the Scientific Development Unit:

  • Cristina Montes
  • Julia Isidro
  • Jesús Rodríguez
  • Pedro Juan Martínez
  • Nuria García-Mancha
  • Rocío Andújar

The SYMPHONY project has a total budget of €161,994.6, of which €80,994.6 corresponds to CNH2, and will last for three years, ending on 31 October 2028.

With this new project, CNH2 reinforces its commitment to research into advanced energy conversion technologies, contributing to the development of innovative solutions that promote decarbonisation and technological competitiveness in the field of hydrogen and clean energy.