La0.7Sr0.3MnO3-coated SS444 alloy by dip-coating process for metallic interconnect supported Solid Oxide Fuel Cells

Sol-gel and dip-coating technologies have been used to deposit La0.7Sr0.3MnO3 (LSM) porous thin films on stainless steel SS444-Cr-17% interconnect plates. Single and double LSM layers were fired in air at 800 °C for 2 h to achieve a sufficient adhesion on the substrate. The microstructure and composition of oxide scales were investigated using X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive X-ray analysis. The area specific resistance (ASR) for coated and uncoated plates was evaluated during long term oxidation in air at 800 °C for 200 h, and between 600 and 900 °C, by DC two point measurements. The formation of an interfacial oxide scale based on (Cr,Mn)3O4 spinel and Cr2O3 has been evidenced for uncoated and LSM-coated SS444. The results indicate that the oxidation resistance of the alloy is enhanced by a protective coating consisting of one single LSM layer. ASR values as low as 0.6 mΩ cm2 were recorded after 200 h at 800 °C. The effectiveness of the LSM layer as a protective coating depends on the stability of the film and its adherence on the alloy substrate.