Nano-structured cathodes based on La0.6Sr0.4Co0.2Fe0.8O3−δ for solid oxide fuel cells

Lanthanum-based iron- and cobalt-containing perovskite is a promising cathode material because of its electrocatalytic activity at a relatively low operating temperature in solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs), i.e., 700–800 °C. To enhance the electrocatalytic reduction of oxidants on La0.6Sr0.4Co0.2Fe0.8O3−δ (LSCF), nanocrystalline LSCF materials are successfully fabricated using a complexing method with chelants and inorganic nano dispersants. When inorganic dispersants are added to the synthesis process, the surface area of the LSCF powder increases from 18 to 88 m2 g−1, which results in higher electrocatalytic activity of the cathode. The performance of a unit cell of a SOFC with nanocrystalline LSCF powders synthesized with nano dispersants is increased by 60%, from 0.7 to 1.2 W cm−2.

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