Optimization of spin-coated electrodes for electrolyte-supported solid oxide fuel cells

Electrodes for electrolyte-supported solid oxide fuel cells (SOFC's) were fabricated by spin coating. Strontium-doped lanthanum manganite (LSM) cathode and nickel yttria-stabilized zirconia cermet anodes were synthesized and processed for enhanced deposition conditions. The influence of electrode microstructural parameters was investigated by a systematic experimental procedure aiming at optimized electrochemical performance of single cells. Polarization curves showed a strong dependence on both electrode thickness and sintering temperature. By a systematic control of such parameters, the performance of single cells was significantly enhanced due to decreasing of polarization resistance from 26 Omega cm(2) to 0.6 Omega cm(2) at 800 degrees C. The results showed that spin-coated electrodes can be optimized for fast and cost effective fabrication of SOFCs.