The Structural and Mechanical properties of (CeO2)1-x(GdO1.5)x Electrolytes

Abstract

(CeO2)(1-x) (GdO1.5)(x) is a possible candidate as an electrolyte in a low temperature solid oxide fuel cell. This paper describes how Raman spectroscopy can be used to determine the structural changes observed with increasing Gd2O3 dopant concentration. The mechanical properties of (CeO2)(0.8) (GdO1.5)(0.2) were also determined. The 4-point bend strength, for example, was found to be 143 +/- 10.4 MPa at room temperature, and 114.7 +/- 11.9 MPa at 800 degrees C. The paper also describes several methods for determining the fracture toughness of (CeO2)(0.8) (GdO1.5)(0.2) at room temperature.