Metal oxide nanofiber-based electrodes in solid oxide fuel cells

Metal oxide nanofiber (MONF)-based electrodes are currently at the cutting edge of research for application in solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs), especially in intermediate temperature–solid oxide fuel cells (IT-SOFCs). Mixed ionic-electronic conductors (MIECs) have been widely investigated as cathode materials for IT-SOFCs. Compared to pure electronic conductors, MIECs present good coking resistance, redox stability, and high catalytic activity at intermediate operating temperature. In addition, the manufacturing technique is also being refined. One-dimensional materials—such as nanotubes, nanowires, nanorods, and NFs—have gained significance due to their high surface area and mechanical properties. Electrospinning is the method of choice for NF preparation since, compared to other available methods, it is cost effective, simple, and reproducible. An overview of innovative NF-based electrodes for application in IT-SOFCs, is reported here. Electrochemical results are critically examined and discussed, with reference to the electrode architecture.