Robust SOFC anode materials with La-doped SrTiO₃ backbone structure

Redox-stable Sr_0.9La_0.1TiO₃ (SLT) with Ce_0.9Gd_0.1O₂ (GDC) and (Sc₂O₃)_0.1(CeO₂)_0.01(ZrO₂)_0.89 (SSZ) was used to fabricate robust anodes for zirconia-based electrolyte-supported SOFCs. The anode consisted of three layers: a layer of 60wt% GDC-40wt% SLT or 40wt% SSZ-60wt% SLT as a functional layer and two layers of SLT as current conducting layers. An impregnation method has been employed to decorate nano-sized Ni and CeO₂ into the ceramic anode to improve electrochemical performance and redox stability. It was found that the catalyst impregnated ceramic anode has improved redox stability compared with the conventional Ni-SSZ cermet. The incorporation of the oxide catalyst, CeO₂, during co-impregnation process was found to even further improve redox stability of the anode, since CeO₂ particles have a lower tendency to aggregate during redox cycling.