Evaluation of Novel Nanophase Ce0.8Sr0.2Fe0.9Ir0.1O3-δ as Cathode Material for Low Temperature SOFC

In this study, Ce_0.8Sr_0.2Fe_0.9Ir_0.1O_3-δ (CSFI) perovskite type material was prepared by sol-gel technique, characterised, and then tested as a cathode material for solid oxide fuel cells operating between 300 – 500 °C. The materials were studied using X-ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and thermogravimetric analysis. The morphology was examined using scanning electron microscopy and high resolution transmission electron microscopy. Samples showed changes in the overall structure and defect chemistry with an increase in calcination temperature. When tested as cathode materials, the material calcined at 1000 °C had the greatest performance at a test temperature of 500 °C, with a current density of 774.47 mA/cm², a power density of 483.07 mW/cm² and an area specific resistance (ASR) of 0.342 Ω/cm².