Effect of moisture on chemical stability and hydrogen permeability of Ni-BaCe0.9Y0.1O3-δ cermet

Ni-BaCe0.9Y0.1O3-delta mixed protonic-electronic conductor can be used to separate hydrogen from syngas. Considering that water exists in syngas, it is necessary to evaluate the effect of moisture on chemical stability and hydrogen permeability of the cermet. In this paper, hydrogen permeation rates of Ni- BaCe0.9Y0.1O3-delta (40:60 in volume ratio) in different water partial pressures were measured at intermediate temperatures (600-750 degrees C). It is found that hydrogen permeation rate of the cermet is highest at an appropriate water partial pressure. Samples after experiment were analyzed by XRD, ICP and pH value measurement, in which Ba(OH)(2) and doped CeO2 were found. The reaction of water with samples resulting in insulating Ba(OH)(2) and doped CeO2 is contributed to the decrease of hydrogen permeation in excessive water partial pressure.