Researchers have introduced a groundbreaking technology aimed at enhancing the chemical stability of electrode materials, significantly extending their lifespan by incorporating minimal amounts of metal. Using a combination of computational chemistry and experimental data, the team led by Professor WooChul Jung from the Department of Materials Science and Engineering discovered that the localized squeezed state surrounding the Sr atom in the perovskite lattice weakens the Sr-O bond, making it easier for ruthenium to separate. This finding offers new insights into the mechanisms behind surface segregation and degradation in high-temperature environments.
Fuel cells are considered a vital energy technology for the future, with solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) gaining increasing attention due to their ability to convert various fuels—such as biomass, LNG, and LPG—directly into electricity. The performance of SOFCs largely depends on the cathode, where oxygen reduction occurs. Typically, perovskite oxides (ABO3) are used in cathodes due to their high initial efficiency. However, over time, these materials tend to degrade, limiting long-term performance. A major issue is the formation of surface segregation, where compounds like strontium oxide (SrOx) accumulate, reducing electrode effectiveness.
The research team found that local strain variations in perovskite structures are a key driver of this surface segregation. To address this, they introduced different-sized metal atoms into the oxide structure, effectively managing the lattice strain and suppressing enthalpy-driven segregation. This approach allows for improved stability without requiring additional manufacturing steps.
Professor WooChul Jung emphasized that this method can be seamlessly integrated into existing material synthesis processes. He stated, “By adding just a small amount of metal atoms during synthesis, we can achieve significant improvements in durability. I believe this technology will play a crucial role in developing more robust and long-lasting perovskite-based electrodes.†This innovation marks a promising step forward in the development of sustainable and efficient fuel cell technologies.
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