Chemical synthesis and characterization of Ca-substituted YAlO(3) as electrolyte for solid oxide fuel cells

Abstract

In this study, perovskite type oxide YAlO(3) has been doped with different amounts of the divalent cation Ca to synthesize Y(1-x)Ca(x)AlO(3-delta) (x = 0-0.21) compositions. The effect of dopant concentration on the crystal structure and electrical properties of YAlO(3) synthesized by citrate gel route has been investigated. The phase purity of the samples has been carried out using X-ray diffraction. The microstructural evaluation of the samples has been conducted by scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive spectrum analysis. Thermal analysis has been conducted to monitor the decomposition of the intermediate products. The electrical conductivity studies have been performed using a.c. impedance spectroscopy as a function of temperature in the range 200-800 degrees C in air. The Y(0.94)Ca(0.06)AlO(3-delta) composition exhibits a total conductivity of 2.5 mS/cm at 800 degrees C. .