Characterization of Scandia Stabilized Zirconia Doped With Various $Bi2O3$ Additions as an Intermediate Temperature Solid Oxide Fuel Cell Electrolyte

$Bi2O3$ doped scandia stabilized zirconia systems have shown promise for use as electrolytes in intermediate temperature solid oxide fuel cells (IT-SOFC's). Sintering properties, crystal phase transformation, and electrical conductivity of the $Bi2O3$ doped $Sc2O3–ZrO2$ systems were investigated. The effect of $Bi2O3$ doping from $0mol%$ to $2.0mol%$ and different sintering temperatures on the properties and performance of the electrolyte were examined. The presence of $Bi2O3$ aided the sintering process and better sintering for the doped system was achieved at lower temperatures. The cubic phase was successfully stabilized at room temperature with concentrations of $1mol%$ and $2mol%$$Bi2O3$ sintered at $1100–1400°C$⁠. The achievement of a cubic structure depends on both the $Bi2O3$ concentration and the sintering temperature. Higher electrical conductivity was achieved with $Bi2O3$ doped $Sc2O3–ZrO2$ systems than 10ScSZ below $600°C$⁠. A maximum conductivity of $1.68×10−2S/cm$ at $700°C$ was obtained for $2mol%$$Bi2O3$ doped sample sintered at $1100°C$⁠.