Plasma Sprayed LSM Cathode for Solid Oxide Fuel Cells

Abstract

Lanthanum Strontium Manganate (LSM) and LSM/Yttria Stabilized Zirconia (YSZ) cathode materials were developed by Vacuum Plasma Spraying (VPS) and Air Plasma Spraying (APS). A parametric study on thermal spraying conditions was performed to manufacture LSM and LSM/YSZ coatings having a good cohesion, high enough porosity and a minimal decomposition of the LSM phase. Layers open porosity was measured by the Archimedes method and phase analysis was done by X-Ray Diffraction (XRD). Electrochemical characterization was performed by impedance spectroscopy at 900{degree sign}C under air on selected cathode materials. Different electrochemical performances were obtained following the spraying atmosphere and the cathode composition. The most efficient cathode developed in this work is composed of two layers: LSM/YSZ as active layer and LSM as collecting layer obtained by APS.