A multistep model for the kinetic analysis of the impedance spectra of a novel mixed ionic and electronic conducting cathode

A one-dimensional, heterogeneous and dynamic model is applied to kinetically analyze impedance experiments performed on a novel NdBa0.9Co2O5.6 (NBC) MIEC cathode. The model simulates the spectra in the time domain by accounting for the gas diffusion inside the electrode pores, and for the solid state diffusion of oxygen vacancies inside the bulk of the cathodic material. A detailed kinetic scheme is applied to describe the oxygen reduction mechanism, which includes steps for adsorption and desorption, first and second electronation at the gas/electrode interface, and ion transfer at the electrode/electrolyte interface. The kinetic investigation is based on impedance spectra collected on symmetric NBC/GDC/NBC cells, at open circuit voltage, between 550 and 700 degrees C, and 5-100% O-2 molar fraction. The vacancies diffusion coefficient and the kinetic parameters of the reaction steps are fitted to describe the data. At the highest temperatures, a sensitivity analysis reveals that the rate determining step is the first electronation of the oxygen adatom, while the second electronation and the interfacial ion transport are kinetically irrelevant. Overall, the model allows to individuate the key parameters for capturing the kinetics of a MIEC cathode. (C) 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.