Work

In situ CuxO nanodecoration via rapid sputtering for tailoring surface nanostructure of oxygen electrodes

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: A rapid in-situ nanodecoration strategy is developed to enhance the durability of nanostructured La 0 . 6 Sr 0 . 4 CoO 3- δ (LSC) cathodes for solid oxide fuel cells. Cu nanoparticles (∼5 nm) are deposited onto nanoporous PLD-grown LSC surfaces via magnetron sputtering and subsequently oxidized to Cu x O under 500 °C operating conditions. Initial electrochemical performance, including power density and polarization resistance, remains comparable between decorated and undecorated cells. However, the undecorated cathode exhibits rapid degradation, with resistance increasing from 1.6 to 3.25 Ω cm 2 over 23 h. In contrast, the Cu x O-decorated cathode stabilizes after an initial conditioning period, maintaining a resistance of 1.75 Ω cm 2 . The Cu nanoparticles retain their size during oxidation, indicating morphological stability. Constant-voltage operation reveals a >58% enhancement in current density over time for the decorated electrode. Impedance spectroscopy and distribution of relaxation times (DRT) analysis attribute the performance improvement to a marked reduction in charge transfer resistance. These results demonstrate a simple and scalable surface modification approach for improving the longevity and functionality of nanoporous oxide electrodes in electrochemical energy systems.

Source: International Journal of Hydrogen Energy

DOI: 10.1016/j.ijhydene.2026.153837

Authors: Donghyun Kim, Sangcheol Jang, Wonjong Yu, Suk Won Cha

Institutions: Kyung Hee University, Seoul National University

Language: English

Topic: Advancements in Solid Oxide Fuel Cells

Subfield: Materials Chemistry

Field: Materials Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Affordable and clean energy

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,730