A solid oxide fuel cell device comprises: (a) zirconia based electrolyte;
(b) at least one ectrode situated on the electrolyte; (c) a component
situated in close proximity to the electrolyte, the component comprising
at least one metal or metal oxide capable, at temperatures of above
625.degree. C., of: (i) migrating to the surface of this component, and
(ii) being re-deposited on said at least one electrode; and (d) a
protective coating situated on at least one surface of this component.
The protective coating substantially prevents the at least one metal or
metal oxide from leaving the surface of the component, which is situated
under said protective coating. The protective coating is also being
substantially impermeable to oxygen.