La_2-xSr_xCoO_4-δ (x = 0.9, 1.0, 1.1) Ruddlesden-Popper-type layered cobaltites as cathode materials for IT-SOFC application

La_2-xSr_xCoO_4-δ (x = 0.9, 1.0, 1.1) compounds with Ruddlesden-Popper K₂NiF₄-type structure have been investigated as potential cathode materials for IT-SOFC application. Materials have been prepared by citrate-nitrate combustion method. Structural evolution analysed by XRD shows a shortened Co-O-Co bond length within the perovskite layer as Sr substitution increases, while the interlayer distance at the same time increases. An oxygen stoichiometry close to 4 has been found for all compositions at room temperature. Thermal expansion coefficients have been obtained from temperature-dependent XRD analysis and show large values (>20 × 10^-6 K^-1) compared to the currently utilized electrolyte materials. Electrochemical characterisation has been performed by means of impedance spectroscopy on symmetric cells with CGO electrolyte. Pure electrodes have a high Area Specific Resistance, probably due to limited oxygen ion diffusion. By using composite electrode (50 wt.% CGO), an Area Specific Resistance of 0.25 Ω cm² is obtained at approximately 700 °C for all the three compounds suggesting promising electrochemical properties for IT-SOFCs.