Structural, electric and dielectric properties of perovskite based nanoparticles for energy applications

A nanocomposite electrode, obtained by combining two high performance perovskite materials, such as lanthanum strontium cobalt ferrite, La${}_{0.6}$Sr${}_{0.4}$Co${}_{0.2}$Fe${}_{0.8}$O${}_{3-\delta }$ (LSCF) and gadolinium doped ceria, Ce${}_{0.85}$Gd${}_{0.15}$O${}_{1.5}$ (GDC), were investigated as a promising cathode for moderate temperature solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs). The synthesized material has good conductivity and catalytic performance. The purpose of this synthesis was to prepare a stable and highly performing nanocomposite cathode material. In this research work, LSCF and GDC were separately synthesized by co-precipitation and solid-state reaction method to gain a homogeneous perovskite phase. Varying concentrations of LSCF-GDC composite with GDC (10 wt.%, 20 wt.% and 30 wt.%) were synthesized followed by calcination at 600 °C to remove water content and to achieve an adequate porous structure for oxygen absorption and desorption. These fabricated LSCF, GDC, and the nanocomposite specimens were characterized for microstructure, particle size etc. via. X-ray diffraction method (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM) and the laser particle size analyzer. This procedural approach helps to expand new methods for generating bi-functional duel nano-sized perovskites with great performance and stability which can be utilized for advancement of renewable energy sectors especially for rechargeable fuel batteries.