METAL-ORGANIC DEPOSITION OF THIN-FILM YTTRIA-STABILIZED ZIRCONIA-TITANIA

Mixed-conducting yttria-stabilized zirconia-titania (YZTi) has attract ive applications in solid oxide fuel cells (SOFC's) and electrocatalys is, particularly when used as a thin film to reduce its electrical res istance. Thin films of yttria (12 mol %) stabilized zirconia-titania ( 8 mol %) have been prepared using metal-organic deposition (MOD) where by metal-organic solutions of Zr-, Y-, and Ti-2-ethylhexanoates are sp un onto suitable substrates. Variables affecting the film surface-morp hology, chemistry, and crystal structure are examined using scanning e lectron microscopy (SEM), auger electron spectroscopy (AES), and x-ray diffraction (XRD), respectively. Uniform, pore-free films having a lo w carbon content (<1 at. %) are made by sintering on a hot plate at 53 0 degrees C. The effect of thermal cycling on the chemical compatibili ty and adherence is examined for YZTi films on yttria-stabilized zirco nia substrates.