Effects of NiO/GDC Ratios and Additives on Electrical Properties of SOFC Anodes

Ni/Gd-doped CeO2 (Ni-GDC) cermet is employed as a solid oxide fuel cell anode operating at 800 degrees C. The single cells are a Ni-GDC/YSZ/LSM-YSZ structure. A novel plasticizer, 1,3-propanediol, is introduced into the fabrication process along with the use of the conventional organic binder PVB. Effects of anode compositions, 50% and 60% NiO, and additive types (PVB/PPD and PVB/PEG) on microstructure and electrical conductivity are compared. The results show that a more uniformity grain and pore distribution in the anode and a suitable additive enhances electrical conductivity. An improvement of cell performance with reduced total internal resistance is also observed.