Preparation and characterization of new cobalt-free cathode Pr0.5Sr0.5Fe0.8Cu0.2O3-δ for IT-SOFC

A new cobalt-free perovskite oxide Pr0.5Sr0.5Fe0.8Cu0.2O3-delta (PSFC) has been synthesized and evaluated as cathode material for intermediate-temperature solid oxide fuel cells (IT-SOFCs). The chemical compatibility of PSFC with Sm0.2Ce0.8O1.9 (SDC) electrolyte has be proven by XRD, and its electrical conductivity reaches the maximum value of 264.1 S cm(-1) at 475 degrees C. Symmetrical cells with the configuration of PSFC/SDC/PSFC are used for the impedance study and the polarization resistance (Rp) of PSFC cathode is as low as 0.050 Omega cm(2) at 700 degrees C. Single cells, consisting of Ni-YSZ/YSZ/SDC/PSFC structure, are assembled and tested from 550 degrees C to 800 degrees C with wet hydrogen (similar to 3% H2O) as fuel and static air as oxidant. A maximum power density of 1077 mW cm(-2) is obtained at 800 degrees C. All the results suggest that the cobalt-free perovskite oxide PSFC is a very promising cathode material for application in IT-SOFC. Copyright (C) 2013, Hydrogen Energy Publications, LLC. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.