Preparation and characterization of Ce1−xSmxO2−δ (x = 0.1–0.3) as electrolyte material for intermediate temperature SOFC

•Sm doped CeO2 was successfully synthesized by carbonate co-precipitation method.•Lattice parameters increased with increase in Sm3+ while the crystallite size decreased.•Peaks at 463, 560 & 600 cm−1 in Raman spectroscopy confirms the formation of SDC20.•Optical absorption spectra of SDC20 exhibits a red shift when compare to pure CeO2.•SDC20 exhibits the highest oxygen ionic conductivity 473–623 K.

The effect of Sm doping on CeO2 for its use as a solid electrolyte material for intermediate temperature solid oxide fuel cells (IT-SOFCs) has been explored here. Ce1−xSmxO2−δ (x = 0.1–0.3) samples are successfully synthesized by carbonate co-precipitation method. TG–DTA, XRD, Raman, UV–Vis, FT-IR, SEM and ac-impedance are used for structural and electrical characterization. From the XRD patterns, well-crystalline cubic fluorite structured solid solution is confirmed. Lattice parameters increased with increase in Sm3+ while the crystallite size decreased. The optical absorption spectra exhibits a red shift for Sm3+ doped CeO2. Raman spectra show an intense peak at 463 cm−1, a characteristic peak for doped ceria. SEM shows cluster like particles. Based on ac-impedance data, the total oxygen ionic conductivity is highest for Ce0.8Sm0.2O2−δ in the temperature range of 473–623 K.

Graphical abstractFigure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slide