Published online by Cambridge University Press: 01 February 2011
Using a model cathode-electrolyte system composed of epitaxial thin-films of La1-xSrxMnO3-δ (LSM) on single crystal yttria-stabilized zirconia (YSZ), we investigated changes in the cation concentration profile in the LSM during heating and under applied potential using grazing incidence x-rays. Pulsed laser deposition (PLD) was used to grow epitaxial LSM(011) on YSZ(111). At room temperature, we find that Sr segregates to form Sr enriched nanoparticles and upon heating the sample to 700°C, Sr is slowly reincorporated into the film. We also find different amounts of Sr segregation as the X-ray beam is moved across the sample. The variation in the amount of Sr segregation is greater on the sample that has been subject to 72 hours of applied potential, suggesting that the electrochemistry plays a role in the Sr segregation.