Incorporation of Copper Oxide in La0.8Sr0.2Ga0.8Mg0.2O3 (LSGM) Electrolyte Material for Solid Oxide Fuel Cell

Abstract

Solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) are efficient and low-emission energy conversion devices that operate by directly converting chemical energy into electrical energy. Despite their advantages, conventional SOFCs require high operating temperatures (~1000 °C), which lead to increased material degradation, cost, and limited lifespan. To address these challenges, research has focused on developing electrolyte materials that perform effectively at intermediate temperatures (500–800 °C) while maintaining high ionic conductivity and chemical stability. Lanthanum gallate-based perovskites, particularly La₀.₈Sr₀.₂Ga₀.₈Mg₀.₂O₃₋δ (LSGM), are among the most promising candidates due to their excellent oxide-ion conductivity and compatibility with SOFC components. In this study, copper oxide (CuO) is introduced as a dopant at the gallium site within the LSGM structure to enhance ionic conductivity while preserving structural and chemical stability under reducing conditions. The copper-doped LSGM electrolyte materials will be synthesized using the coprecipitation method. The dried precursors will be sintered at 800 °C, and the resulting samples will be characterized using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Raman spectroscopy, and UV-Visible spectroscopy to analyze crystal structure, functional groups, phase composition, and optical properties. The synthesized samples will be pelletized, and their ionic conductivity will be measured through electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), with performance testing carried out under hydrogen fuel conditions. The study also investigates the effect of sintering aids on densification and grain boundary resistance. This research aims to develop a structurally optimized and thermally stable Cu-doped LSGM electrolyte, contributing to the advancement of high- performance SOFCs that operate efficiently at intermediate temperatures.