Exsolution in La and Ni co-doped strontium titanate: a suitable anode for running SOFCs on ammonia as alternative fuel

¹ Department of Chemical Science, University of Padova, Via F. Marzolo 1, 35131, Padova, Italy
² ICMATE -Department of Chemical Science, University of Padova, Via F. Marzolo 1, 35131, Padova, Italy

Abstract

Ammonia exhibits interesting features as fuel to feed Solid Oxide Fuel Cell. Herein, Ni and La co-doped strontium titanate was synthetized using wet chemistry route. Ni nanoparticles emerged via exsolution in reducing environment to decorate the surface. X-Ray Diffraction measurements exhibits perovskite structure was also preserved after the exsolution, as expected. H₂ – Temperature Programmed Reduction highlights the great resistance of titanates in anode operation condition. Ammonia conversion in nitrogen and hydrogen were investigated by catalytic tests. It begins to decompose at 560°C and the full yield was achieved at 720°C. Electrochemical measurements were recorded at 800°C using 10% of ammonia in Ar. They were analysed though the model of equivalent circuit and two processes were attributed. Results certify Ni exsolution strongly enhances the hydrogen oxidation and the total polarisation resistance in ammonia approaches to the one in hydrogen.