Enhancing nanoparticle stability of Sr1.9Fe1.5Mo0.5O6–δ electrode in solid oxide fuel cells via praseodymium oxide infiltrated surface protection layer

Mitigating nanoparticle agglomeration on anode ceramic electrodes is critical for maintaining performance during the long-term operation of solid oxide fuel cells. We infiltrate praseodymium into A-site deficient Sr_1.9Fe_1.5Mo_0.5O_6–δ (SFM), where the surface exsolved Fe nanoparticles due to the non-stoichiometric composition are effectively stabilized to improve the SFM electrode stability. The infiltrated praseodymium reacts with exsolved surface Fe nanoparticles and forms praseodymium ferrite, while the excess Pr₆O₁₁ reduces to Pr_xO_y, creating a protective surface film to mitigate Fe nanoparticle degradation and improving the electrode performance stability. The infiltrated Pr also improves surface charge transfer, significantly reducing electrode polarization resistance. The infiltrated Pr surface protective layer offers a promising strategy for long-term electrode durability in solid oxide fuel cells.