Surface and interface behaviors of Sr-doped lanthanum manganite air electrode in different moisture atmospheres

► Thermal treatment induces slight LSM grain growth, which is less in moist air. ► Moisture causes formation of La-containing particles and more Mn depletion on YSZ. ► Cr deposition is slightly more for the samples thermally treated in moist air. ► Cr1.5Mn1.5O4 forms on all LSM surfaces, SrMn3O6−x forms on moist air treated LSM. ► La enriches at YSZ/LSM interface and facilitates Cr deposition and Mn depletion.