Synergistic Ba/Fe doping engineers a high-performance Pr1.5La0.5NiO4+δ-based protonic ceramic fuel cell cathode

Protonic ceramic fuel cells (PCFCs) are highly efficient energy conversion devices that operate at relatively low temperatures. Enhancing their performance strongly relies on developing cathode materials with high electrocatalytic activity. This study presents a double-doped perovskite material, Pr 1.5 La 0.3 Ba 0.2 Ni 0.9 Fe 0.1 O 4+δ (PLBNF), where the electrochemical properties are significantly improved through composition and structural tuning. Comprehensive characterization confirms that the co-doping strategy effectively enhances the hydration capability, oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) activity, and operational stability. At 700 °C, the polarization resistances of the PLBNF cathode and the PLBNF-BZCYYb composite cathode are 0.11 and 0.08 Ω cm 2 , respectively, with peak power densities reaching 1012 and 1277 mW cm −2 . Fuel cell tests demonstrate excellent operational stability for the PLBNF-BZCYYb air electrode, indicating its strong potential for application in high-performance proton-conducting ceramic fuel cells. This work provides new insights into the development of efficient fuel cell materials and advances related energy technologies.