Synthesis and performance of Sr1.5LaxMnO4 as cathode materials for intermediate temperature solid oxide fuel cell

A-site non-stoichiometric materials Sr_1.5La_xMnO₄ (x = 0.35, 0.40, 0.45) are prepared via solid state reaction. The structure of these materials is determined to be tetragonal. Both the lattice volume and the thermal expansion coefficient reduce with the decrease of lanthanum content. On the contrary, the conductivity increases and the maximum value of 13.9 S cm⁻¹ is found for Sr_1.5La_0.35MnO₄ at 750 °C in air. AC impedance spectroscopy and DC polarization measurements are used to study the electrode performance. The optimum composition of Sr_1.5La_0.35MnO₄ results in 0.25 Ω cm² area specific resistance (ASR) at 750 °C in air. The oxygen partial pressure measurement indicates that the charge transfer process is the rate-limiting step of the electrode reactions.