Electrical and Mechanical Properties of ZrO2-Y2O3-Al2O3 Composite Solid Electrolytes

Abstract

AbstractStrategic priorities in the field of hydrogen energy include the design of intermediate-temperature solid oxide fuel cells capable of highly efficient operation in the temperature range of 573–973 K. Consequently, attempts are being made to replace the widely applied cubic zirconia electrolyte with an electrolyte consisting of tetragonal zirconia. The rationale for this approach is that 3Y-TZP exhibits higher mechanical strength and higher electrical conductivity at temperatures below 973 K. The addition of Al2O3 in an amount that exceeds its solubility limit in 3Y-TZP has been found to result in increased electrical conductivity and improved mechanical properties. The aim of the study was to synthesize 3-YSZ powder via co-precipitation and use it to obtain composites with a 3Y-TZP matrix and 0.5 mol.% or 1.0 mol.% of Al2O3 inclusions. The correlation between these samples' electrical conductivity and resistance to brittle fracture and their phase composition and microstructure was investigated by means of X-ray diffractometry, scanning electron microscopy, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and Vickers indentation tests. For comparison, the properties of composites with an 8-YSZ matrix and Al2O3 inclusions were also investigated. It was determined that the composite based on the 3Y-TZP matrix and containing 0.5 mol.% of Al2O3 inclusions can be considered a viable alternative for 8-YSZ electrolytes in IT-SOFC applications.