The synthesis and characterization of the Sm_0.5Sr_0.5Co_1-xCu_xO_3-δ cathode by the glycine-nitrate process

In this study, a new oxygen-deficient cathode material, Sm_0.5Sr_0.5Co_1-xCu_xO_3-δ (SSCCu) was developed. It is expected to enhance the efficiency of intermediate-temperature solid oxide fuel cells (IT-SOFCs). The structure, conductivity and electrochemical performance of SSCCu were examined as a function of copper content. The structure of Sm_0.5Sr_0.5Co_0.9Cu_0.1O_3-δ and Sm_0.5Sr_0.5Co_0.8Cu_0.2O_3-δ samples was a single orthorhombic perovskite phase. Second phase SrCoO_2.8, however, formed in the Sm_0.5Sr_0.5Co_0.7Cu_0.3O_3-δ and Sm_0.5Sr_0.5Co_0.6Cu_0.4O_3-δ samples. The conductivity of the Sm_0.5Sr_0.5Co_0.7Cu_0.3O_3-δ cathode was higher than that of other samples. However, the Sm_0.5Sr_0.5Co_0.8Cu_0.2O_3-δ electrode exhibited the lowest overpotential of 25 mV at 400 mA cm^-2 and the lowest area special resistance of 0.2 Ω cm² at 700 °C.