Design and Characterization of LSM/ScCeSZ Nanocomposite As Mixed Ionic–electronic Conducting Material for Functionally Graded Cathodes of Solid Oxide Fuel Cells

LSM/ScCeSZ nanocomposite was prepared via ultrasonic dispersion of the mixture of perovskite and fluorite powders in isopropanol in 1:1 ratio with addition of polyvinyl butyral. Studies of the real structure and surface property evolution at sintering under air up to 1100°C revealed some redistribution of elements between the phases without new phase formation. Sizes of both phase domains remain in nanorange even in the dense material, thus providing a developed perovskite–fluorite interface. The surface layer of nanocomposite is enriched by LSM. The oxygen mobility and reactivity estimated by the oxygen isotope exchange and O2 TPD exceed those for LSM suggesting a positive role of interfaces as fast oxygen migration paths. Button-cell tests with the LSM/ScCeSZ interlayer between LSNF and a thin ScYSZ layer covering Ni/YSZ cermet demonstrated a high and stable performance promising practical application promising for practical application.