Synthesis, structural analysis and electrochemical performances of BLSITCFx as new cathode materials for solid oxide fuel cells (SOFC) based on BIT07 electrolyte

BaIn0.3Ti0.7O2.85 (BIT07) is a suitable electrolyte for Solid Oxide Fuel Cell (SOFC) but half cells based on La0.58Sr0.4Co0.2Fe0.8O3−δ (LSCF) as a cathode material show a degradation of the Area Specific Resistance (ASR) at 700 °C with time. This study deals with the characterization of alternative cathode materials showing a better compatibility with BIT07 than LSCF. A new solid solution, BaxLa0.58(1−x)Sr0.4(1−x)In0.3xTi0.7xCo0.2(1−x)Fe0.8(1−x)O3−δ, with 0 ≤ x ≤ 1, also called BLSITCFx, with in this case x expressed in molar %, derived from BIT07 and LSCF, has been synthesized at 1350 °C in air using BIT07 and LSCF powders. Two compositions, BLSITCF12 and BLSITCF25, have been selected due to their thermal expansion and conductivity properties. Symmetrical half cells based on these two new materials deposited on BIT07 electrolyte have been studied by complex impedance spectroscopy in air versus temperature and time. Their behaviour is comparable to LSCF's, with ASR values never exceeding 0.2 Ωcm2 at 700 °C, and moreover their less important Thermal Expansion Coefficient (TEC) mismatch with BIT07 lead to a better mechanical compatibility with time. These new compounds are therefore better candidates than LSCF as cathode materials for SOFC based on BIT07 electrolyte.