Cost-effective method of Co-doped rare-earth-based ceria (Y-CGO) nanocomposite as electrolyte for LT-SOFCs using C-TAB as surfactant

Abstract

Y-CGO [Yttria and Gadolinia co-doped ceria, prepared composition is Ce0.8Gd0.2O2-δ–Ce0.8Y0.2O2-δ] nanocomposite was prepared by wet-chemical synthesis for application in low-temperature solid oxide fuel cells (LT-SOFC) as an electrolyte by using basic materials (Rare-earth-based), sodium hydroxide (NaOH) [as precipitator material] and Cetyl Trimethyl ammonium bromide (CTAB) [as surfactant]. DTA/TGA of the precursor compound indicated the completion of reaction at about 300°C. The formation of cubic structure observed as well crystalline and no secondary phase was revealed by the XRD. Ce-O bond is assigned in the sample revealed by FTIR. SEM analysis unveiled that the sample comprises spherical shaped and homogeneous with a grain size of about 100 nm. EDAX reveals the elemental composition of the sample. Impedance measurements have been made in voltage-1.3 volts and the frequency range – 42 Hz to 5 kHz. Better conductivity value is attained that may make this system appropriate for application as an electrolyte for LT-SOFCs.