Performance analysis of LiAl0.5Co0.5O2 nanosheets for intermediate-temperature fuel cells

Abstract Exploring high conductive materials is still a challenge for high performance intermediate-temperature fuel cells. In this study, two-dimensional LiAl0.5Co0.5O2 (LACO) nanosheets coated by a compatible amorphous LiAlO2 (LAO) layer are evaluated as proton/Li+ conductor electrolyte. The fuel cell in which the LAO-LACO is used as electrolyte could deliver the maximum power output of 1120 mW cm−2 at 550 °C. The LAO coating enhances not only the ionic conductivity by modifying the space-charge regions, but also improves the LACO's chemical stability and device performance. Kelvin probe force microscopy further detected a local electric field (LEF) built in the LAO-LACO coating confines protons at the interface to transport fast. Such heterostructure with the LEF accelerating mechanism presents a novel approach for developing high-performance intermediate-temperature fuel cells.