Improvement on Sr- and Mg-doped LaGaO3 perovskite solid electrolyte

A second phase, LaSrGaO4, has been identified in the doped LaGaO3 materials. The elimination of this second phase, which enhances the electrical conductivity, has been achieved by nonstoichiometric doping. Conductivity measurements vs atmosphere and time indicate that this material is a pure oxide-ion conductor with excellent stability. Preliminary single fuel-cell tests gave a high open-circuit voltage and maximum power-density output at 800 degrees C. These results indicate that doped LaGaO3 is a potential electrolyte material for use in thick-film solid oxide fuel cells.