Electrochemical Investigation of Lanthanide Incorporated Sr0.5R0.3Fe0.2CoO3-δ Cathode Materials for Solid Oxide Fuel Cell

Abstract

The fossil fuel-based energy resources are widely providing predominant amount of worldwide energy such as coal, oil, and gas. Unfortunately, due to high consumption rate and the current generation demands, these limited assets are being depleted rapidly. Therefore, it is urgent need to find out some alternate energy resources which should be renewable. One kind of fuel cell that is well-known for its great efficiency and capacity to function at high temperatures usually between 600°C and 1000°C is the solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC). To carry oxygen ions from the cathode to the anode, where the fuel is oxidized and energy is produced, they use a solid oxide or ceramic electrolyte. The cathode material has a major impact on SOFC performance; it needs to have strong catalytic activity, chemical stability, and electronic conductivity. In this regard, lanthanide-incorporated Sr0.5R0.3Fe0.2CoO3-δ (where R = Ce, Gd, and Sm) cathode materials are being studied to boost SOFC performance. Higher efficiency and durability can result from the addition of lanthanides, which can also enhance the catalytic and electrical conductivity. By improving SOFC performance, this novel strategy hopes to increase their viability for clean energy applications and promote the development of sustainable energy technology. The goal of this research work is to improve the efficiency of SOFCs by studying lanthanide-incorporated Sr0.5R0.3Fe0.2CoO3-δ cathode materials. Sr0.5R0.3Fe0.2CoO3-δ materials will be synthesized by solid state reaction and characterized by XRD, SEM, RAMAN, UV- Vis, FTIR and EIS. Electrical conductivities and fuel cell performance will be measured under hydrogen atmosphere. By optimizing the cathode's properties, this novel strategy seeks to promote clean energy solutions by increasing efficiency, extending operational lifespans, and expanding the applications of SOFC technology.