Aspects of Metal-YSZ Electrode Kinetics Studied using Model Electrodes

Abstract

The electrode kinetics of oxidation and reduction of H2/H2O and CO/CO2 at the metal/yttria stabilized zirconia (YSZ) interface were studied using model metal wire electrodes contacting polished YSZ pellets. The intent was to probe the reaction mechanisms by comparing the same reactions using different metals (Ag, Au, Cu, Ni, Pd, and Pt) under identical conditions relevant to fuel cell and electrolysis cell operation (e.g. including 50% H2/H2O and 50% CO/CO2). Impedance spectra were measured at open-circuit voltage and under polarization, and polarization sweeps were performed. The gas composition and temperature were varied to examine how the electrochemical measurements varied, to facilitate identifying the electrode rate-limiting processes. Possible mechanisms that may explain these and other details are discussed.