Sintering effect on material properties of electrochemical reactors used for removal of nitrogen oxides and soot particles emitted from diesel engines

In the present work, 12-layered electrochemical reactors (comprising five cells) with a novel configuration including supporting layer lanthanum strontium manganate (LSM)-yttria stabilised zirconia (YSZ), electrode layer LSM-gadolinia-doped cerium oxide (CGO) and electrolyte layer CGO were fabricated via the processes of slurry preparation, tape casting and lamination and sintering.

The parameters of porosity, pore size, pore size distribution, shrinkage, flow rate of the sintered reactors and the electrical conductivities of the supporting layer and the electrode in the sintered reactors were characterised. The effect of sintering temperature on microstructures and properties of the sintered samples was discussed, and 1,250 °C was determined as the appropriate sintering temperature for reactor production based on the performance requirements for applications.

Using the present ceramic processing route, porous, flat and crack-free electrochemical reactors were successfully achieved. The produced electrochemical reactors have the potential application in the removal of NOx and soot particles emitted from the diesel engines.