Oxide ion electrolytes

Oxide ion electrolytes are used in sensors, oxygen pumps, and—potentially—high temperature electrolysis and fuel cells. However, their range of application is limited by too low an oxide ion conductivity below 800°C in the electrolytes now available commercially. The paper outlines a strategy for the identification of improved materials. Preliminary studies have identified inexpensive oxides readily prepared by conventional ceramic techniques that promise acceptable performance at temperatures as low as 400 °C. They are compared with the Bi4V1.8Cu0.2O10.7 oxide conductor developed at Lille. The mechanisms of oxide ion conduction for the different compounds are discussed.