In-situ exsolved FeNi nanoparticles on perovskite matrix anode for co-production of ethylene and power from ethane in proton conducting fuel cells

Abstract Proton-conducting solid oxide fuel cells have the potential ability to simultaneously convert ethane to electrical energy and value-added ethylene with high selectivity and the absence of CO2 emissions. However, their development is impeded by a lack of efficient and stable anode materials. Herein, in-situ exsolved FeNi nanoparticles on (La0.6Sr0.4)0.95Fe0.8Ni0.1Mo0.1O3-δ (LSFNM) perovskite oxide are realised by controlling A-site deficiency and Mo-doping. The introduction of high-valence molybdenum ions in (La0.6Sr0.4)0.95Fe0.8Ni0.2O3-δ (LSFN) not only stabilises its cubic perovskite structure under a reducing atmosphere, but also facilities the exsolution of FeNi nanoparticles from the parent perovskite matrix. The power density of the BaZr0.1Ce0.7Y0.2O3−δ (BZCY) electrolyte-supported single cells with a LSFNM/BZCY/LSCF-SDC configuration reaches 172mW•cm−2 at 750°C in C2H6; meanwhile, the ethylene yield also reaches approximately 40.5%. The presented results extend the functionality and applicability of proton conducting fuel cells for carrying out efficient hydrocarbon-related electrochemical conversion for producing power and co-production of value-added chemicals.