PNNL

Abstract

It is generally accepted that the cathode is a major contributor to internal losses in the SOFC, so improvements in the cathode can lead to higher SOFC power density and efficiency, which will help SOFC manufacturers achieve the long-term SECA goals in terms of cost and power stability. As LSCF is currently a leading candidate amongst cathode materials due to its ability to conduct both electrons and oxygen ions, both of which are essential to cathodic performance in the SOFC, work in this task in FY 2011 was focused on investigating potential modifications to the composition of the LSCF cathode in order to obtain potential improvements in electrochemical performance. Meanwhile, in order to investigate the underlying causes of the degradation that occurs in LSCF cathodes during fuel cell operation, a new research capability has been developed that allows XRD measurements to be performed on the cathode of an operating SOFC. It is anticipated that this will provide additional insight into any chemical reactions and/or changes in the crystal lattice of the cathode over time while the fuel cell operates.