Intermediate Temperature Anode-Supported Fuel Cell Based on BaCe0.9Y0.1O3 Electrolyte with Novel Pr2NiO4 Cathode

A proton conducting ceramic fuel cell (PCFC) operating at intermediate temperature has been developed that incorporates electrolyte and electrode materials prepared by flash combustion (yttrium-doped barium cerate) and auto-ignition (praseodymium nickelate) methods. The fuel cell components were assembled using an anode-support approach, with the anode and proton ceramic layers prepared by co-pressing and co-firing, and subsequent deposition of the cathode by screen-printing onto the proton ceramic surface. When the fuel cell was fed with moist hydrogen and air, a high Open Circuit Voltage (OCV > 1.1 V) was observed at T > 550 degrees C, which was stable for 300 h (end of test), indicating excellent gas-tightness of the proton ceramic layer. The power density Of the fuel cell increased with temperature of operation, providing more than 130 mW cm(-2) at 650 degrees C. Symmetric cells incorporating Ni-BCY10 cermet and BCY10 electrolyte on the one hand, and Pr2NiO4+delta and BCY10 electrolyte on the other hand, were also characterised and area specific resistances of 0.06 Omega cm(2) for the anode material and 1-2 Omega cm(2) for the cathode material were obtained at 600 degrees C.