The present paper reviews anodic reaction mechanisms of porous cermet and model anodes at metal/oxide interfaces in solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs). Some analytical results, electrochemical methods, and reaction models were presented at Ni-YSZ cermets and well defined model anodes. Isotope labeling/secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS) analysis techniques were applied to determine the oxygen surface reactivity of oxide electrolytes in reducing atmospheres. The technique was also applied to determine the catalytic activity of metal/oxide interfaces for CH4 decomposition and reactivity with the reformed gases at the mesh or stripe shaped anodes on different oxides. Observed SIMS images and the electrochemical analyses were compared at the model anode/electrolyte interfaces. (c) 2006 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.