Identifying spectral descriptors for protonation in BaZr₀.₈Y₀.₂O₃₋ₓ with electron energy loss spectroscopy

The hydrogen economy is of paramount importance in the global transition to a sustainable, clean energy source that contributes to decarbonization efforts. For example, the proton conducting proton ceramic fuel cells (PCFCs) play a crucial role in promoting hydrogen energy technology. In a PCFC, the electrolyte is typically a solid oxide material that enables proton transport and can operate at temperatures lower than those of traditional oxygen ion conducting fuel cells. The reduced operating temperature of PCFCs contributes to their durability, scalability, and efficiency. BaZr₀.₈Y₀.₂O₃₋ₓ (BZY) is one such promising proton conducting solid oxide electrolyte. This conference contribution uses electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS) paired with first-principles spectra to identify the local spectroscopic descriptors of proton incorporation in BZY — connecting nanoscale STEM-EELS measurements to functional behaviour of the protonic-ceramic electrolyte.

Microscopy and Microanalysis 30, Suppl. 1, ozae044.582 (2024)