Physicochemical properties of ceramic tape involving Ca0.05 Ba0.95 Ce0.9Y0.1O3 as an electrolyte designed for electrolyte-supported solid oxide fuel cells (IT-SOFCs)

Abstract

A proton-conducting membrane involving modified barium cerate BaCe0.9Y0.1O3 was obtained in the form of gas-tight ceramic tape. Monophase Ca0.05Ba0.95Ce0.9Y0.1O3 (5CBCY) powder and an organic medium consisting of polyvinyl butyral used as a binder, a plasticiser based on carboxylic acid esters, and a mixture of ethanol and methyl ethyl ketone were used to prepare slurry for the tape-casting process. Gas-tight ceramic tapes involving 5CBCY and sintered samples were tested as electrolytes in hydrogen–oxygen button solid oxide fuel cells within the temperature range 500–750 °C. Variations in OCV and ohmic resistance (Rs) were determined within this range. A considerable decrease in Rs value was recorded for 5CBCY tape compared to 5CBCY sintered samples. A series of symmetrical cells with 5CBCY electrolytes was analysed. The lowest ASR values for the investigated cells were found for a newly elaborated LSCF–5CBCY cathode as well as for a Ni–5CBCY anode. These electrode materials appear to be suitable for 5CBCY-electrolyte-supported solid oxide fuel cells.