Doping of scandia-stabilized zirconia electrolytes for intermediate-temperature solid oxide fuel cell: A review

The shortcomings of high-temperature solid oxide fuel cells necessitate research on SOFCs designs that are capable of operation at intermediate temperatures (600-800 degrees C), the so-called intermediate-temperature SOFCs. One of the limitations for the efficient operation of these fuel cells lies in insufficient ionic conductivity of the electrolyte material. This review briefly covers the types of ceramic electrolytes used in intermediatetemperature SOFCs and focuses on scandia-stabilized zirconia (ScSZ) electrolytes. It explores possibilities of control of phase stability and ionic conductivity of ScSZ by co-doping by various oxides, such as ceria, bismuth oxide, yttria, ytterbia, and several other co-dopants. It also covers a range of novel techniques applied to preparation of ScSZ electrolytes, which can be used to influence microstructure and phase composition of the electrolytes. The recommendations on the optimal ScSZ co-doping scheme are developed in the course of the present work.

Automated summary

The focus of this review is on the development of scandia-stabilized zirconia (ScSZ) electrolytes for intermediate-temperature solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs). The study explores the co-doping control and preparation techniques for improving ionic conductivity and phase stability of ScSZ, with the aim of addressing limitations in the efficient operation of these fuel cells.