Nanoionics fuel cells

The aim of this chapter is to review the current state of knowledge in ionic materials with crystallite dimensions less than 100 nm, systems which sometimes are referred to as nanoionics. The chapter will detail the preparation, characterization and the important applications of these materials, especially in sensors, solid-state batteries, and fuel cells. Particular focus will be placed on ionic transport in these materials, as this is a topic of considerable contemporary interest, and where conflicting reports exist of enhanced diffusion in nanocrystals. 

An example of the use of nanoionic materials as the cathode in a SOFC is that of nanotubes of Lao.6Sro.4Co03 and Lao.6Sro.4Coo.2Feo.8O3 [136]. These perovskite-type mixed oxides (see Chapters 9 and 12) are widely used as cathode materials, and the nanotubes were prepared by denitration, microwave irradiation and calcination at 800 °C. The shape and size of the nanotubes was controlled by the porous template used, although their application in a fuel cell was not reported. 

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