Development of Ceria Based SOFCs With a High Performance La0.6Sr0.4Co0.2Fe0.8O3−δ–Ce0.9Gd0.1O1.95–Ag Composite Cathode

Abstract

In this work, a microtubular cell consisting of a thin Ce0.9Gd0.1O1.95 (GDC) electrolyte (thickness: below 10 μm) on a support NiO/GDC anode (1.8 mm outer diameter, 200 μm wall thickness) with a La0.6Sr0.4Co0.2Fe0.8O3−δ/GDC functional cathode has been developed for intermediate/low temperature operation. The functional cathode was prepared by in situ infiltrating the electrochemically catalytic nano-Ag particles into the as-established 20 μm thick cathode. The as-proposed Ag-impregnation route ensures a very homogeneous particle dispersion and a good adhesion of Ag to the ceramic matrices. The cells were successfully operated to produce the maximum power densities of 0.41 W cm−2 (1.27 A cm−2, 0.32 V), 0.83 W cm−2 (2.23 A cm−2, 0.37 V), and 1.05 W cm−2 (2.39 A cm−2, 0.44 V) at 450°C, 500°C, and 550°C, respectively.