Nano-structured cathodes based on La_(0.6)Sr_(0.4)Co_(0.2)Fe_(0.8)O_(3-δ) for solid oxide fuel cells

摘要

Lanthanum-based iron- and cobalt-containing perovskite is a promising cathode material because of its electrocatalytic activity at a relatively low operating temperature in solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs), i.e., 700-800℃. To enhance the electrocatalytic reduction of oxidants on La_(0.6)Sr_(0.4)Co_(0.2)Fe_(0.8)O_(3-δ) (LSCF), nanocrystalline LSCF materials are successfully fabricated using a complexing method with chelants and inorganic nano dispersants. When inorganic dispersants are added to the synthesis process, the surface area of the LSCF powder increases from 18 to 88 m~2 g~(-1), which results in higher electrocatalytic activity of the cathode. The performance of a unit cell of a SOFC with nanocrystalline LSCF powders synthesized with nano dispersants is increased by 60%, from 0.7 to 1.2 Wcm~(-2).