Ag decorated (Ba,Sr)(Co,Fe)O3 cathodes for solid oxide fuel cells prepared by electroless silver deposition

We reported nano-structured Ag modified Ba0.5Sr0.5Co0.6Fe0.4O3−δ (Ag@BSCF) cathode for solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) that is prepared by vacuum assisted electroless deposition technique. We show that the concentration of Ag can be easily adjusted by tuning the deposition time without altering the perovskite structure of the pristine BSCF. The effect of Ag loading on the electrochemical performance of the material has been systematically studied by varying the Ag loading and the working condition (oxygen partial pressure). An optimized electrode performance is observed with an Ag loading of ∼2 wt%. We demonstrate that the presence of Ag significantly reduces the electrode ohmic resistance and enhances the catalytic O2 reduction performance of the BSCF cathode.

► Nano-structured Ag coating is prepared on BSCF cathode by electroless deposition.
► Promotion effect of Ag on the electrochemical activity of BSCF is studied.
► Presence of Ag reduces the electrode ohmic resistance.
►  Presence of Ag enhances oxygen dissociation and/or surface diffusion processes.