ZnO/NiO nanocomposite electrodes for low-temperature solid oxide fuel cells

ZnO/NiO nanocomposite electrodes have successfully been developed using a cost-effective method, and for the first time used in LT-SOFCs at 300–600 °C. They exhibit high conductivity and a dual catalytic functionality in both the cathode and the anode for the electrochemical reduction of O2 and oxidation of H2, respectively. An excellent fuel cell performance, e.g. a maximum power density of 1107 W cm− 2, has been shown for a symmetrical fuel cell that contained ZnO/NiO nanocomposite electrodes at 500 °C. To our knowledge, to date this is by far the highest power density achieved at this temperature.

Research highlights
► A novel nanostructure anode showed excellent performance, 1257 mW/cm2.
► It exhibits high conductivity and a dual catalytic functionality in both the cathode and the anode for the electrochemical reduction of O2 and oxidation of H2.
► It might be useful for avoiding carbon deposition during the internal reforming and fuel cell reactions. It could prevent catalyst deactivation in SOFC anodes when using the hydrocarbon fuels.