Review on zirconate-cerate-based electrolytes for proton-conducting solid oxide fuel cell

The performance of low-to-intermediate temperature (400–800 °C) solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) depends on the properties of electrolyte used. SOFC performance can be enhanced by replacing electrolyte materials from conventional oxide ion (O2-) conductors with proton (H+) conductors because H+ conductors have higher ionic conductivity and theoretical electrical efficiency than O2- conductors within the target temperature range. Electrolytes based on cerate and/or zirconate have been proposed as potential H+ conductors. Cerate-based electrolytes have the highest H+ conductivity, but they are chemically and thermally unstable during redox cycles, whereas zirconate-based electrolytes exhibit the opposite properties. Thus, tailoring the properties of cerate and/or zirconate electrolytes by doping with rare-earth metals has become a main concern for many researchers to further improve the ionic conductivity and stability of electrolytes. This article provides an overview on the properties of four types of cerate and/or zirconate electrolytes including cerate-based, zirconate-based, single-doped cerate–zirconate and hybrid-doped cerate–zirconate. The properties of the proton electrolytes such as ionic conductivity, chemical stability and sinterability are also systematically discussed. This review further provides a summary of the performance of SOFCs operated with cerate and/or zirconate proton conductors and the actual potential of these materials as alternative electrolytes for proton-conducting SOFC application.