Effect of Co alloying on the electrochemical performance of Ni–Ce0.8Gd0.2O1.9 anodes for hydrocarbon-fueled solid oxide fuel cells

Ni–Co alloy-based cermets have been characterized as alternative materials for the anode in hydrocarbon-fueled solid oxide fuel cells. Ni1−xCox–Ce0.8Gd0.2O1.9 cermet anodes were co-synthesized using a glycine nitrate process without further mixing processes. Both the electrical conductivity and the amount of carbon deposits were reduced by Co alloying, while the polarization resistance in H2 atmosphere increased with increasing Co content. The anode polarization resistance in a CH4 atmosphere also decreased with an increasing Co content. These findings were strongly correlated with the carbon deposition behavior. Co alloying was effective at suppressing the deposition of carbon and improving the electrochemical performance of solid oxide fuel cells that operate on CH4 fuel.

► Ni1−xCox–Ce0.8Gd0.2O1.9 cermet anodes were synthesized by glycine nitrate process.
► Electrical conductivity decreased with increasing the Co contents.
► Co alloying was effective in suppressing carbon deposits.