Application of 8YSZ Nanopowder Synthesized by the Modified Solvothermal Process for Anode Supported Solid Oxide Fuel Cells.

Thin electrolyte yttria-stabilized zirconia (8YSZ) films were coated on the porous solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) anode substrates for the use at an intermediate temperature range. Nano-8YSZ powder with a particle size of about 5 nm was synthesized using the modified solvothermal process. The electrolyte suspension was prepared by dispersion the synthesized 8YSZ nanopowder in ethanol, with PVB and 1,3-propanediol as a binder and a charging agent respectively. The 8YSZ suspension was subsequently deposited on the pre-sintered NiO-YSZ porous substrates by the electrophoretic deposition (EPD) technique. In order to obtain high quality electrolyte films, preparation process was optimized through two strategic approaches; (i) adjustment of suspension's rheological property and (ii) compatibility of anode-electrolyte sintering shrinkage. Rheological property of the suspension was improved with an addition of 1,3-propanediol. The zeta potential of this suspension was increased and reached the value of +24 mV so the well-dispersed slurry was finally obtained. The second approach was achieved by using a proper composite anode powders. Dense and uniform 8YSZ electrolyte films with a thickness of about 1 thickness successfully be formed on the NiO-YSZ porous substrates after co-sintering at 1400 °C for 2 h.