Novel Nano-composites SDC-LiNaSO₄ as Functional Layer for ITSOFC.

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Electrochemistry
• Energy Storage

Background:

• Intermediate temperature solid oxide fuel cells (ITSOFCs) require efficient ionic conductive functional layers.
• Samarium-doped ceria (SDC) is a known material, but its conductivity can be further enhanced.
• Developing novel composite materials is crucial for improving fuel cell performance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize and characterize SDC-LiNaSO4 nano-composites for ITSOFC applications.
• To investigate the effect of LiNaSO4 content on the composite's properties, particularly ionic conductivity.
• To evaluate the performance and stability of ITSOFCs utilizing these composites as interlayers.

Main Methods:

• Sol-gel synthesis method for creating SDC-LiNaSO4 nano-composites.
• Characterization of crystal phase, defect concentration, and ionic conductivity.
• Fabrication and testing of single fuel cells with the composite as an interlayer.

Main Results:

• The ionic conductivity of SDC-LiNaSO4 composites significantly increases with LiNaSO4 content.
• The composite with 20 wt% LiNaSO4 exhibited the highest conductivity (0.35 S cm⁻¹ at 700°C).
• Single cells using the 20 wt% composite interlayer showed improved peak power density (0.88 W cm⁻² at 700°C) and enhanced thermal stability.

Conclusions:

• SDC-LiNaSO4 nano-composites demonstrate superior ionic conductivity compared to SDC alone.
• The 20 wt% LiNaSO4 composite is a highly promising interlayer material for ITSOFCs.
• The developed composite offers a potential pathway to enhance the efficiency and durability of fuel cell technology.