A robust symmetrical electrode with layered perovskite structure for direct hydrocarbon solid oxide fuel cells: PrBa0.8Ca0.2Mn2O5+δ

Abstract

Symmetrical solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs), where the same material is used as both the anode and the cathode, have gained increasing attention due to a number of attractive benefits compared to the conventional SOFC such as a simplified fabrication procedure, reduced processing costs, minimized compatibility issues, as well as enhanced stability and reliability. Since the anode is in a reducing environment while the cathode is in an oxidizing environment, the symmetrical SOFC electrode should be chemically and structurally stable in both environments. Herein, we propose a highly stable symmetrical SOFC electrode, a layered perovskite Ca doped PrBaMn₂O_5+δ (PBCMO). The electrical conductivity of this electrode is very high in a reducing atmosphere and suitable in an oxidizing atmosphere. Furthermore, the PBCMO symmetrical electrode demonstrates excellent electrochemical performance and durability in various hydrocarbon fuels as well as hydrogen.