A stable intermediate temperature fuel cell based on doped-ceria–carbonate composite electrolyte and perovskite cathode

Excellent performance has been achieved at 400–600 °C for fuel cells based on doped-ceria–carbonate composite electrolytes; however, the fuel cell stability remains a big challenge for practical applications. In this communication, we report the stable performance of a fuel cell based on doped-ceria–carbonate composite electrolyte and Sm0.5Sr0.5Fe0.8Cu0.2O3 − δ cathode. At 550 °C, current output of about 400 mAcm− 2 was continually generated during the non-stop 100 hour measurement under constant voltage of 0.7 V although further investigation is needed for longer term stability. This type of intermediate temperature fuel cell is promising for real applications.

Graphical abstractA stable intermediate temperature fuel cell based on ceria–carbonate composite electrolyte and perovskite cathode has been successfully developed. At 550 °C, current output of about 400 mAcm− 2 was continually generated during the non-stop 100 hour measurement under constant voltage of 0.7 V. Enhanced cell performance was achieved due to reduced series and polarization resistances. This type of intermediate temperature fuel cell is promising for real applications.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► A stable intermediate temperature fuel cell has been demonstrated. ► Perovskite oxides are good cathode materials for fuel cells based on composite electrolytes. ► The fuel cell performance is stable during the measured 100 h. ► This type of intermediate temperature fuel cell is promising for real applications.