Synthesis and characterization of layered perovskite cathode materials for SOFC application

Abstract

The present study emphasizes the effect on the properties of cathode material by doping Ln = Nd, Pr on A-site cation in double-layered perovskite (AA′B2O5+δ). New cathode compositions Pr1-xNdxBa0.5Sr0.5Co0.5Fe1.5O5+δ (where x = 0, 0.25, 0.5, 0.75 and 1.0) were synthesized by the glycine-nitrate method and their calcination temperature was optimized. Refinement of X-ray diffraction patterns was performed to determine crystallographic information of the obtained phase. These synthesized powders were pelletized, then sintered at 1200–1250°C for microscopic analysis and electrical conductivity measurements. The chemical stability of these compositions with electrolyte gadolinium-doped ceria was also investigated. Pr1-xNdxBa0.5Sr0.5Co0.5 · Fe1.5O5+δ at x = 0 has shown highest conductivity of 315 S cm−1 at 550°C followed by x = 1.0 of 230 S cm−1 at 570°C. The findings of the present study reveal that these compositions may be used as cathode materials in solid oxide fuel cells.