High-entropy materials for solid oxide cells: Synthesis, applications, and prospects

As global energy demand increases and environmental standards tighten, the development of efficient, eco-friendly energy conversion and storage technologies becomes crucial. Solid oxide cells (SOCs) show great promise because of their high energy conversion efficiency and wide range of applications. High-entropy materials (HEMs), a novel class of materials comprising several principal elements, have attracted significant interest within the materials science and energy sectors. Their distinctive structural features and adaptable functional properties offer immense potential for innovation across various applications. This review systematically covers the basic concepts, crystal structures, element selection, and major synthesis strategies of HEMs, and explores in detail the specific applications of these materials in SOCs, including its potential as air electrodes, fuel electrodes, electrolytes, and interconnects (including barrier coatings). By analyzing existing studies, this review reveals the significant advantages of HEMs in enhancing the performance, anti-poisoning, and stability of SOCs; highlights the key areas and challenges for future research; and looks into possible future directions.