The influence of noble-metal-containing cathodes on the electrochemical performance of anode-supported SOFCs

In order to enhance the catalytic activity of the cathode for oxygen reduction and thus to increase the electrochemical performance of planar anode-supported solid oxide fuel cells, Pd, Ag, or Pt was added to the cathode. Four routes were used to add these noble metals: infiltration of the cathode with a Pd solution, deposition of Pt on the electrolyte surface, mixing of La0.65Sr0.30MnO3 (LSM) and YSZ cathode powders with different metal precursors (Pt and Pd black, Pd on activated carbon, Ag powder, Ag2O, Ag acetate, Ag citrate, Ag2CO3, colloidal Ag, AgNO3), and synthesis of LSM powder with the addition of AgNO3. Between 750 and 900 °C no electrocatalytic effect occurred with respect to the presence of Pt, either added by deposition on the electrolyte or by mixing with cathode powders. Infiltration of the cathode with a Pd solution or mixing with Pd black did not result in a positive effect either. A catalytic effect was only found with Pd on activated carbon and in particular at lower temperatures. Cells prepared with Ag powder and Ag2O showed an improved electrochemical performance compared to Ag-free cells sintered at the same temperature (920 °C). However, in comparison to Ag-free cells sintered at the standard temperature (1100 °C) lower current densities were measured. This can be explained by a weak contact between electrolyte and cathode functional layer and an insufficiently sintered cathode. A detrimental effect was observed regarding the addition of the other Ag precursors. Thermal decomposition of these precursors resulted in the formation of large pores in the cathode.