Characterization of Sr and Ba-Doped LaCrO3 Powders Synthesized by EDTA Method

Abstract

Lanthanum chromites are good candidates for electrode application in IT-SOFC. This paper reports the synthesis and characterization of lanthanum chromite powders, doped with strontium and barium, from nitrate precursors by the EDTA method. The samples were synthesized, calcined (800ºC/ 6h), pelletized and sintered at different temperatures. X-ray diffraction patterns showed formation of crystalline perovskite phase, with smaller quantities of secondary phases of SrCrO4 and BaCrO4. The crystallite size calculated using the Scherrer equation is in the range of 23-29 nm. Thermogravimetric analysis revealed that the weight loss is similar for all samples, with complete burn out of organics at 800oC. Scanning electron microscopy showed the presence of agglomerates, formed by particles with low porosity. The electrical conductivity of all samples is similar to the values in the literature.