La0.8Sr0.2Fe0.8Cu0.2O3-d as “cobalt free” cathode for La0.8Sr0.2Ga0.8Mg0.2O3-d electrolyte

A “cobalt free” cathode material with stoichiometric composition La0.8Sr0.2Fe0.8Cu0.2O3- (LSFCu) was specifically developed for La0.8Sr0.2Ga0.8Mg0.2O3- (LSGM) electrolyte for IT-SOFC applications. The chemical stability with LSGM electrolyte was investigated by structural and morphological analysis. The electrochemical properties of LSFCu dense pellets were investigated in the temperature range 600–750°C by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). LSFCu/LSGM/LSFCu symmetrical cells were prepared and Area Specific Resistance (ASR) values, directly depending on the rate limiting step of the oxygen reduction reaction, were evaluated. Fuel cells were prepared using LSFCu as cathode material on LSGM pellet and electrochemical tests were performed in the 700–800°C temperature range and compared to similar fuel cells prepared by using commercial La0.6Sr0.4Fe0.8Co0.2O3- (LSFCo). The maximum current density and power density recorded for LSFCu and LSFCo were comparable demonstrating that Cu can be used as substitutes Co.