1. Fundamental Studies of Nano-Scale Solid Oxide Fuel Cell Catalysts Scott Barnett, Northwestern University
The new anode composition developed in this project, (La0.8Sr0.2)(Cr1-yPdy)O3- (LSCrPd), was particularly interesting since it produced the lowest polarization resistance of any of the anodes and exhibited excellent sulfur tolerance.
The figures at left illustrate the properties:
Top: electrochemical impedance spectrum in hydrogen fuel at 800C showing a quite low polarization resistance of 0.17 Ohm cm2
Middle: transmission electron microscopy image of a LSCrPd particle showing a large number of nano-particles that appear after fuel cell operation - these appear to be responsible for the good performance
Bottom: Cell potential versus time during operation in hydrogen contaminated with 50 ppm of H2S, showing a rapid but slight initial drop in potential followed a gradual recovery to the initial value (in pure hydrogen). This represents much better sulfur tolerance than most other anode materials.
Notes: LDC = La-doped Ceria; LSCF = (La,Sr)(Co,Fe)O3