Modernized Synthesis Technique of Pr₂NiO_4+δ-Based Complex Oxides Using Low-Temperature Salt Melts

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Solid-State Chemistry
• Electrochemistry

Background:

• Layered lanthanide nickelates are promising electrode materials for solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) and electrolysis cells (SECs).
• Conventional synthesis methods (solid-state, solution-assisted) for these materials present challenges.
• Efficient and cost-effective preparation routes are crucial for their widespread application.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce a novel, simple, and straightforward synthesis method for Pr2NiO4+δ materials.
• To overcome limitations associated with existing preparation techniques.
• To enable cost-effective production of Ruddlesden-Popper oxide phases.

Main Methods:

• Co-melting of initial nitrate components.
• High-temperature decomposition of the resulting mixture.
• Characterization of the synthesized Pr2NiO4+δ powders.

Main Results:

• Successful preparation of Pr2NiO4+δ materials using the novel co-melting and decomposition approach.
• Obtained highly dispersed and single-phase powders.
• Achieved synthesis at a reduced temperature of 1050 °C, lower than conventional methods.

Conclusions:

• The developed co-melting and decomposition method offers significant advantages over traditional techniques.
• This approach enables efficient, cost-effective synthesis of Pr2NiO4+δ powders.
• The findings open new avenues for producing Ruddlesden-Popper oxide phases for electrochemical devices.