The triple-layer graded LaBaCo2O5+delta-Sm0.2Ce0.8O1.9 (LBCO-SDC) composite cathode was prepared by screen-printing method for intermediate-temperature solid oxide fuel cells. The result of X-ray diffraction indicated the LBCO cathode was chemically stable with the SDC electrolyte. Through optimizing the composition and microstructure, the electrochemical performance of cathode was significantly improved. For triple-layer graded LBCO-SDC composite cathode, the area-specific resistance (ASR) values were 0.881 Omega cm(2) at 600 degrees C, 0.174 Omega cm(2) at 700 degrees C and 0.047 Omega cm(2) at 800 degrees C in air, about 14.8%, 41.0% and 65.7% lower than that of the monolayer LBCO cathode, respectively. The cathodic overpotential was also decreased from 51.0 mV for the monolayer cathode to 33.6 mV at a current density of 0.20 A cm(-2) at 700 degrees C. The graded composite cathode showed great potential in improving the cathode performance for IT-SOFCs. Crown Copyright (C) 2012 Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.