Enhanced performance of La0.7Sr0.3Fe0.9Ni0.1O3 cathode by partial substitution with Ce

The crystal structure, conductivity, and electrochemical properties of Ce doped La0.7Sr0.3Fe0.9Ni0.1O3−δ (CLSFNi) have been investigated as solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) cathode. The polarization resistance of symmetric cell was reduced, although the substitution of Ce at La-sites decreased the symmetry of crystal structure and total electrical conductivity. The results indicate that the incorporation of Ce improves the catalyst activity of oxygen reduction reaction. The addition of GDC (Gd0.1Ce0.9O2-δ) can further decrease the polarization resistance (Rp); for example, the Rp values of CLSFNi and CLSFNi7-GDC3 at 750 °C are 0.130 and 0.047 Ω cm2, respectively. The peak power density is 903, 499, 235 mW cm−2 for the La0.7Sr0.3Fe0.9Ni0.1O3−δ (LSFNi) cathode and 1091, 725, 423 mW cm−2 for the CLSFNi cathode at 750 °C, 700 °C and 650 °C, respectively.