Synthesis and characterization of sdc-bcs composite electrolyte for solid oxide fuel cells

Samarium doped barium cerate (SDC-BCS) solid solution is synthesized through coprecipitation technique. A SDC-BCS perovskite oxide ion conducting nanocomposite electrolyte is studied with respect to its thermal, structural, morphology and conductivity performance. The crystal structure and microstructure of composite is analyzed using XRD and SEM techniques respectively. The crystal structure of as prepared composite powder is identified as cubic perovskite with orthorhombic distortions occurred at 900°C (TGA). From TEM analysis, the particle size is found to be around 27nm, uniform in size, shape. SEM analysis reveals that the existence of dual phase, free from pores and homogenous distribution of SDC-BCS phase in the composite. The enforcement of the specific sintering method (microwave) allows the preparation of dense nanocomposite with the development of dual phase to get improved ionic conductivity for niche fuel cell applications.