Theory for the electrical conductivity of nanoparticle-infiltrated composite electrode of solid oxide fuel cell

Abstract

Based on the physical picture of nanoparticle-infiltrated electrode and the scaling theory for the percolation threshold of a finite thickness layer, a new theory for the electronic conductivity of the electrode is developed. The theory provides a clear explanation for the observed conductivity below the conventional percolation threshold. The observed dependences of the electrode conductivity on nano Ni content and temperature are well reproduced by the theory. The new theory paves the way for in-depth analysis and design optimization of the nanoparticle-infiltrated electrode. © 2013 The Electrochemical Society.