Boost electrocatalytic activity and durability of Fe/Nb co-doping PrBbCo2O6 electrode for proton-conducting solid oxide cells

Performance and durability of proton-conducting solid oxide cells (P–SOCs) are primarily governed by the properties of their air electrodes. While PrBaCo 2 O 6-δ (PBC) has emerged as a widely utilized P–SOC air electrode, owing to its superior electrochemical characteristics, its application is hindered by issues related to poor durability and inadequate thermal compatibility. To overcome these limitations, this study explores a Fe/Nb co-doping strategy. This approach significantly elevates the oxygen vacancy concentration, oxygen ion conductivity, and oxygen surface exchange coefficient, while concurrently reducing the thermal expansion coefficient. These changes collectively result in notable improvements in both performance and durability. Cells with PrBaCoFe 0.9 Nb 0.1 O 6-δ (PBCFN) air electrode achieve a peak power density of 1.23 W cm −2 and a current density of 1.74 A cm −2 (1.3 V) at 650 °C. Additionally, the voltage decay rate for this cell is reduced to just 0.25 %/100 h, further underscoring the remarkable durability of PBCFN. In conclusion, we have successfully developed an air electrode that offers both exceptional electrocatalytic performance and durability. This Fe/Nb co-doping strategy not only addresses the stability challenges of traditional PBC air electrodes but also provides valuable insights into the design of advanced air electrodes for next-generation P–SOCs. • DRM catalytic activities of BZYNi x with different Ni doping content was explored. • A Ba 0.9 (Zr 0.8 Y 0.2 ) 0.8 Ni 0.2 O 6-δ reforming layer was added outside the anode support. • Enhanced performance and durability of RSC were observed when fueled with CH 4 –CO 2 .