Breaking barriers: Novel approaches to proton-conducting oxide materials
Muhammad Tayyab, Sajid Rauf, Abdul Zeeshan Khan, Zuhra Tayyab, Karim Khan, Iftikhar Hussain, Muhammad Bilal Hussain, Muhammad Waseem, Abdullah N. Alodhayb, Xian‐Zhu Fu, Muhammad Qasim, Yibin Tian
Abstract
The quest for sustainable energy solutions drives ongoing research into proton-conducting oxides , also known as protonic ceramics, which hold promise for revolutionizing electrochemical energy technologies. These materials exhibit unique proton conductivity at moderate temperatures, offering advantages over traditional electrolytes. Since Francis Forrat's mid-20th-century discovery of ceramic proton conduction, significant advancements have propelled the field forward, focusing on fuel cells, electrolysis cells, and other energy applications. Challenges persist, including poor electrode adhesion and the need for cost-effective fabrication methods. Recent studies explored cathode material design, innovative fabrication techniques like rapid laser reactive sintering, and theoretical simulations using density functional theory to understand proton migration mechanisms. This review discusses the properties, methodologies, innovations, applications, and future directions of proton-conducting oxide materials. By addressing existing challenges and exploring emerging opportunities, this review aims to contribute valuable insights to the evolving field of protonic ceramics as it continues to evolve.