Synthesis and surface characterization of the La0.7-xPrxCa0.3MnO3 (LPCM) perovskite by a non-conventional microwave irradiation method

• Published in: Journal of alloys and compounds Vol. 735; pp. 1750 - 1758
• Main Authors: Ferrel-Álvarez, A.C., Domínguez-Crespo, M.A., Cong, H., Torres-Huerta, A.M., Brachetti-Sibaja, S.B., De La Cruz, W.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier B.V 25-02-2018
• Subjects: La and Pr substitution; Manganite; Microwave synthesis; Rietveld analysis; XPS characterization; Manganite; Microwave synthesis; La and Pr substitution; Rietveld analysis; XPS characterization
• ISSN: 0925-8388; 1873-4669
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jallcom.2017.11.306

A series of La0.7-xPrxCa0.3MnO3 (x = 0.35, 0.52 or 0.63) perovskites were synthesized using microwave method at different reaction times (3, 4 and 5 min) as possible cathode material for solid oxide fuel cell (SOFCs). SOFCs are a forward looking technology for a highly efficient, environmental friendly power generation. Variation of lattice parameters, unit cell volume and final composition with Pr concentration were analyzed by Rietveld refinement and X-ray photo electron spectroscopy (XPS). Thereafter, samples were sintered (at 1000 °C) to evaluate their electrical properties at room temperature. Rietveld refinement showed that all the samples were a single –phase perovskite –type and belongs to orthorhombic Pnma structure. The atomic composition of doped samples is close to theoretical stoichiometric values. XPS analysis revealed significant changes in the La 3d, Ca 2p, Mn 2p and O 1s intensities as a result of the Pr incorporation.
•Microwave synthesis was proposed to obtain La0.7-xPrxCa0.3MnO3 perovskites.•A single phase crystalline structure with the microwave synthesis was obtained.•Mn3+/Mn4+ ratio suggested a hole doped system instead of electron system.•DC conductivity displayed promissory values to be used as cathode materials.