Electrical Conductivity of Sr$_{x}$VMoO$_{6-y }$(x=0.0, 0.1, 0.2) Double Perovskite Solid Oxide Fuel Cell Anode

Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (SOFCs) are suited for high efficiency power generation, fuel flexibility, high temperature electrolysis, closed loop regenerative systems, oxygen generation, and carbon dioxide reduction. These capabilities make the SOFC highly versatile for: primary/secondary power systems, advanced life support, and in-situ resource utilization which may all be desired for a forthcoming lunar return and Mars Exploration. A promising anode material for a SOFCs is the double perovskite Sr$_{2-x}$VMoO$_{6-y}$(x=0.0-0.2), due to its stability, electronic, and ionic conduction. Anodes of this material were prepared via a tape casting technique. Electrical conductivity was studied in reducing atmospheres at temperatures up to 800 $^{\circ}$C. V and Mo valence states were indentified before and after annealing in a hydrogen environment. Samples exhibited metallic conduction with electrical conductivity of $\sim $10$^{4}$S/cm in a reducing atmosphere at 25 $^{\circ}$C. A highly insulating SrMoO$_{4}$ phase forms upon room temperature exposure to air. The SrMoO$_{4}$ phase can be reduced above 400 $^{\circ}$C resulting in an increase in conductivity.