Characterization and evaluation of La0.8 Sr0.2Co0.8 Ni0.2O3-δ prepared by a polymer-assisted combustion synthesis as a cathode material for intermediate temperature solid oxide fuel cells

A modified polymer-assisted combustion synthesis method is developed for preparation of La0.8Sr0.2Co0.8Ni0.2O3-δ (LSCN) nano-sized cathode particles by using organic additives (glucose and acrylamide) and metal nitrates. The effect of the organic additives, pH value of starting solution and calcination temperature on the formation of the LSCN perovskite phase and microstructure of the powders is investigated. Chemical compatibility between the LSCN and Y2O3 stabilized ZrO2 (YSZ) and Gd2O3 doped CeO2 (GDC) is evaluated and electrochemical activity of LSCN cathode is evaluated. The prepared LSCN is chemically compatible with the YSZ only at temperatures below 850 °C. The electrode area specific resistance (ASR) is 0.30 and 0.10 Ω cm2 at 700 and 750 °C, respectively. These results suggest that such prepared LSCN is a promising alternative cathode material for intermediate temperature SOFCs.