Nano-Structured 7YSZ Electrolyte Layer for Solid Oxide Fuel Cell Prepared by Plasma Spray-Physical Vapor Deposition

Due to high thermal stability and pure oxide ionic conductivity, yttria-stabilized zirconia (YSZ) is the most commonly used electrolyte material for solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC). Nano-structured 7YSZ electrolyte layers were fabricated by plasma spray-physical vapor deposition (PS-PVD) system. The micrograph, microstructure, mechanical properties and gas permeability were characterized by SEM, TEM, 3D X-ray CT and nano-indenter. Moreover, the deposition mechanism of PS-PVD was also discussed. Results indicate that 7YSZ electrolyte layers with a thickness of 8.7 similar to 12.3 gm were successfully prepared. The substrate temperature is a key factor to form this advanced structure controlled at similar to 600 degrees C. The gas permeability of the nano-structured 7YSZ electrolyte layer can achieve 2.24x10(-8)similar to 2.29x10(-8) cm(4).gf(-1).s(-1). It also shows good mechanical properties, of which the recovery rate, hardness and elastic modulus are 57%, 10 GPa and 140 GPa, respectively.