Published online by Cambridge University Press: 01 February 2011
The goal in this study is to synthesize a Ruddleden-Poper La-Ni phase (La4Ni3O10) using a polymeric route. This material exhibits mixed ionic and electronic conduction (MIEC) properties and can be used as cathode material in the manufacture of Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (SOFC). In addition, an easy and inexpensive synthesis method is presented The polymeric precursors are prepared following the Castillo method using optimized the complexation ratios (HMTA/metallic salts) from 1 to 6. The obtained powders are characterized by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) in order to determine the processing conditions for formation of the crystalline phase. Experiments performed using complexation ratios of 5 and 6 do not show coagulation. However, the solution prepared using a complexation ratio of 5, is transformed into a gel after few days. Gels produced from solutions prepared with complexation ratios from 2 to 5 were heated at 800, 900 and 1000°C to obtain solid materials. These powders are characterized by TGS, DSC and XRD and it is found that the temperature needed to obtain crystalline La4Ni3O10 was 1000°C.