Microstructure↔Property Relationships of Ni:ZrO2 Anodes

Abstract

Efficiency calcns. and mech. integrity considerations dictate that thin electrolyte and cathode layers be applied onto a porous anode substrate. We describe the influence of vol. fraction, scale and connectivity of ZrO2, Ni, and porosity on microstructural evolution, elec. cond., and cell performance. The relative scale of the Ni:ZrO2 was controlled by either simple comminution of powders, or by thermal decompn. of organometallic precursors. The vol. fraction of the porosity was varied through either partial sintering or the introduction of fugitive phases. From these studies we have developed a substrate suitable for use as the anode using a thin-film electrolyte that is applied with spin coating. [on SciFinder (R)]