Performance and stability of SOFC anode prepared by co-precipitation

Nickel oxide and yttria stabilized zirconia (NiO/YSZ) cermets have been prepared using a chemical co-precipitation of hydroxides. The influence of different factors on the microstructure and electrochemical properties of the anode was investigated. The anodes were characterized by impedance spectroscopy at open-circuit potential and under current load at 850°C in hydrogen/steam atmosphere (H(sub 2):H(sub 2)O=1:1). The anode polarization resistance was identified by deconvolution of impedance spectra and the influences of current load and pH(sub 2)O on the impedance spectra of the anode were discussed. Long-term stability of the cell with an anode prepared by co-precipitation was carried out over 1000 h under current density of 430-450 mA/cm(sup 2)@0.7 V at 850°C.