Synergistic Dual-Site Modulation Enabling High-Performance Cobalt-Free Perovskite Cathodes for...

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Electrochemistry
• Energy Conversion

Background:

• Solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) are efficient energy technologies.
• Cobalt-based perovskites are common SOFC cathodes but are costly and unstable.
• Developing cost-effective and stable cobalt-free alternatives is crucial for SOFC commercialization.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design and synthesize a novel cobalt-free perovskite oxide cathode material for SOFCs.
• To enhance structural stability, oxygen vacancy concentration, and oxygen-ion transport kinetics.
• To evaluate the electrochemical performance and long-term durability of the new material.

Main Methods:

• Synergistic substitution of La and Y in a BaFeO$_{3-δ}$ framework to create Ba$_{0.8}$La$_{0.2}$Fe$_{0.95}$Y$_{0.05}$O$_{3-δ}$ (BLFY).
• Comprehensive physicochemical characterization (structure, defects, ion mobility).
• Electrochemical performance testing (area-specific resistance, power density) and stability assessments.

Main Results:

• BLFY exhibits a single-phase cubic perovskite structure with high oxygen vacancy concentration and mobility.
• Achieved ultralow area-specific resistance (0.07 Ω·cm²) and high peak power density (1280 mW·cm⁻²) at 600°C.
• Outperformed singly modified counterparts and benchmark cobalt-based cathodes, demonstrating excellent thermal and operational stability.

Conclusions:

• Dual-site synergistic design is effective for creating high-performance cobalt-free perovskite cathodes.
• BLFY presents a promising, cost-efficient, and durable cathode material for intermediate-temperature SOFCs.
• This work paves the way for advanced SOFC technology with improved sustainability.