Harnessing High‐Throughput Computational Methods to Accelerate the Discovery of Optimal Proton Conductors for High‐Performance and Durable Protonic Ceramic Electrochemical Cells

Abstract

The pursuit of high‐performance and long‐lasting protonic ceramic electrochemical cells (PCECs) has been impeded by the lack of efficient and enduring proton conductors. Conventional research approaches, predominantly based on a trial‐and‐error methodology, have proven to be demanding of resources and time‐consuming. Here we report our findings in harnessing high‐throughput computational methods to expedite the discovery of optimal electrolytes for PCECs. We methodically computed the oxygen vacancy formation energy (EV), hydration energy (EH), and the adsorption energies of H2O and CO2 for a set of 932 oxide candidates. Notably, our findings highlight BaSnxCe0.8‐xYb0.2O3‐δ (BSCYb) as a prospective game‐changing contender, displaying superior proton conductivity and chemical resilience when compared to the well‐regarded BaZrxCe0.8‐xY0.1Yb0.1O3‐δ (BZCYYb) series. Experimental validations substantiate our computational predictions; PCECs incorporating BSCYb as the electrolyte achieved extraordinary peak power densities in the fuel cell mode (0.52 and 1.57 W cm−2 at 450 and 600°C, respectively), a current density of 2.62 A cm−2 at 1.3 V and 600°C in the electrolysis mode while demonstrating exceptional durability for over 1000 hours when exposed to 50% H2O. This research underscores the transformative potential of high‐throughput computational techniques in advancing the field of proton‐conducting oxides for sustainable power generation and hydrogen production.This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved