Effect of strontium addition on europium-doped ceria properties

Nanopowders of composition Ce0.9(Eu1 − xSrx)0.1O2 − δ (x = 0, 0.1, 0.3, 0.5, and 0.7) were prepared by the Pechini method. The microstructure and properties of powders and sintered ceramics are discussed in this paper. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Raman spectroscopy revealed that all powders calcined at 550 °C were single phase, with the cubic fluorite-type structure. The good sintering properties of the synthesized nanopowders allowed us to obtain dense ceramics (> 96% theoretical density). Dense ceramics with density higher than 96% of the theoretical value were obtained without the need of sintering aid. The morphology of the sintered ceramics was evidenced by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The ionic conductivities of doped and co-doped ceria ceramics were investigated as a function of temperature by using AC impedance spectroscopy in the temperature range 250–800 °C. Impedance spectra indicate a significant diminution of grain boundary resistance after partial substitution of Eu with Sr in europia-doped ceria sample, especially in the low and intermediate-temperature range. The best conductivity was evidenced for the Ce0.9Eu0.09Sr0.01O2 − δ composition.