Cathodes for fuel cells using proton-conducting Li2SO4–Al2O3 electrolyte

The performances of three widely different cathode materials (Pt, strontium-doped lanthanum manganite (LSM), and NiO) have been compared for use with proton conducting Li2SO4–Al2O3 composite electrolyte, using H2S–air and H2–air fuel cells operating at 600 °C. Surface analysis and electrochemical techniques were used to characterize fresh and used electrode materials. Pt or LSM cathodes each became covered with Li2SO4 and Al2O3 and, as a consequence, the fuel cells showed poor performance. In contrast, the NiO cathode catalyst did not become covered with Li2SO4 and good fuel cell performance was achieved. Exceptionally good current densities of over 100 mA/cm2 and power densities of over 30 mW/cm2 were obtained for H2S–air fuel cells having Mo–Ni–S anode catalysts. Slight agglomeration of NiO particles during fuel cell operation had only a minor effect on performance.