Nanofiber-based LaxSr1−xTiO3-GdyCe1−yO2−δ composite anode for solid oxide fuel cells

LaxSr1−xTiO3 (LST) nanofibers with pure perovskite structure, smooth surface, uniform diameter and length are prepared by electrospinning technique, and applied as scaffolds of LaxSr1−xTiO3-GdyCe1−yO2−δ (LST-GDC) composite anodes for SOFCs. The optimal La doping ratio of LST scaffold has been found to be 0.4, and 0.2 the optimal Gd doping ratio of GDC impregnation phase. The LST:GDC optimal mass ratio of nanofiber-based composite anode has been found to be 1:1.5481, and the composite anode (electrolyte is yttria-stabilized zirconia) to show low interfacial polarization resistances of 0.7309, 0.4688 and 0.2966 Ω cm2 at 800, 850 and 900 °C, respectively. In addition, the microstructure of LST materials has been found to plays an important role on the electrochemical performance of the anodes, and the LST nanofiber scaffolds to show the higher porosity leading to a larger triple phase (ionic conduction phase, electronic conduction phase and gas phase) boundary (TPB) area for the composite anodes.