Ni1-xCux-Ce0.8Gd0.2O1.9 cermet anodes were co-synthesized by a glycine nitrate process (GNP). While the polarization resistance in an H2 atmosphere increased with increasing Cu content, both electrical conductivity and the amount of carbon deposits were reduced by Cu alloying. The anode polarization resistance in CH4 fuel decreased with increasing Cu content, which strongly correlates with the carbon deposition behavior. Cu doping significantly improved the electrochemical performance in CH4 fuel.
Keywords: Solid oxide fuel cell, Composite anode, Ni-Cu alloy, Carbon deposition.