Phase stability and electric conductivity of Er2O3–Nb2O5 co-doped Bi2O3 electrolyte

Two oxides, Er2O3 and Nb2O3, are used to stabilize delta-phase Bi2O3 used as electrolyte of solid oxide fuel cell. Optimization of dopant ratio and total doping concentration (TDC) is determined by X-ray diffraction, and successfully reduce the TDC (Er + Nb) to 10–15 mol.%. Conductivities of different compositions are measured by two-probe method. The results show that highest conductivity appears at the minimum doping concentrations. Phase stability of ENSB samples with Er/Nb ratio of 2/1 and TDC of 10–20 mol.% at 650 °C up to 300 h is analyzed showing two newly formed (alpha- and gamma-) phases in the samples. Degradation of conductivity at 650 °C is studied in detail by DTA and TEM. The abnormity of lattice contraction of delta-phase is discussed.