Conductivity Evaluation of Rutile-Type Th1-xNbxO2 as Interconnect Material for Low Temperature Solid Oxide Fuel Cells

Rutile-type Ti0.93Nb0.07O2 was characterized and evaluated as a potential interconnect material for low temperature solid oxide fuel cells. It was revealed that Ti0.93Nb0.07O2 shows the conductivity of ca. 50 S/cm in reducing atmospheres over a wide temperature range of 400 similar to 1000 degrees C. Also, the effect of Cr-doping on conductivity and the segregation of niobium on grain boundaries was investigated. It was found that Cr-doping to rutile-type Ti0.93Nb0.07O2 is effective in improving the initial conductivity and reducing the rate of conductivity degradation upon aging in air.