Search

Abstract: Bi-layer La0.5Sr0.5CoO3−δ (LSCO) cathodes are processed by a hybrid method that combines a seed layer prepared by a pulsed laser deposition (PLD) technique and a conventional cathode layer (∼7μm in thickness) by a screen printing method. By inserting the PLD seed layer with the thickness of ∼500nm or less, robust cathode films with desired microstructure and excellent adhesion properties with the underlying electrolyte layer, are successfully fabricated. The area specific resistance (ASR) of the hybrid cathode layers decreases about 5 times compared with that of the single layer cathode films prepared by the conventional screen printing method. The hybrid approach provides a cost-effective way to fabricate thick cathode films with significantly enhanced electrochemical properties for solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs). [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Hexagonal tungsten trioxide (hex-WO3) hierarchical microspheres with nest-like pores are synthesized by a facile hydrothermal method. The nest-like-porous (NLP) WO3 hierarchical microspheres with 5–6μm in diameters are self-assembled of single-crystal nanowires. The nanowires have lengths of several hundred nanometers and diameters of 5–30nm; the long axis of nanowire is oriented toward 〈001〉 direction. The specific surface area of hex-WO3 microspheres is 62m2 g−1. 20wt.% Pt nanoparticles with ∼7nm are loaded onto the WO3 microspheres using a conventional microwave-assisted ethylene glycol (EG) method. The electrocatalytic activity for methanol oxidation of Pt/NLP-WO3 microspheres is investigated by cyclic voltammetry and chronoamperometry. Due to the large tunnels of hexagonal structure and high porous surface morphology, great enhancement of electrochemical performance is achieved. The Pt/NLP-WO3 microspheres are demonstrated to be a promising anode material for direct methanol fuel cells (DMFC). [Copyright &y& Elsevier]