Composite oxygen electrode LSM-BCZYZ impregnated with Co3O4 nanoparticles for steam electrolysis in a proton-conducting solid oxide electrolyzer

A composite oxygen electrode based on Co3O4-loaded La0.8Sr0.2MnO3 (LSM)-BaCe0.5Zr0.3Y0.16Zn0.04O3−δ (BCZYZ) is investigated for steam electrolysis in a proton-conducting solid oxide electrolyzer. The conductivity of LSM is studied with respect to temperature and oxygen partial pressure and correlated to the electrochemical properties of the composite oxygen electrodes in symmetric cells and solid oxide electrolyzers at 800 °C. The optimal Co3O4 loading in the composite oxygen electrode is systematically investigated in symmetric cells; loading catalytically active Co3O4 significantly enhances the electrode performance, unlike the bare LSM-BCZYZ electrode. Steam electrolysis was then performed using LSM-BCZYZ and 6 wt.% Co3O4-loaded LSM-BCZYZ oxygen electrodes, respectively. The Co3O4-loaded catalyst significantly improves the electrode process and enhances the current density below a certain applied voltage. The current efficiencies reach approximately 46% with a 10% H2O/air feed for the oxygen electrode. •LSM as the composite anode material of proton-conducting SOE is investigated.•Electrical properties of LSM are studied and correlated to cell performances.•Electrolyzer performance improved significantly with catalyst Co3O4-loaded on anode.