The solid electrolyte chosen for this investigation was La0.9Sr0.1Ga0.8Mg0.2O3(LSGM). To select appropriate electrode materials from a group of possible candidate materials, AC complex impedance spectroscopy studies were conducted between 600 and 800 degrees C on symmetrical cells that employed the LSGM electrolyte. Based on the results of the investigation, LSGM electrolyte supported solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) were fabricated with La0.6Sr0.4Co0.8Fe0.2O3-La0.9Sr0.1Ga0.8Mg0.2O3 (LSCF-LSGM) composite cathode and nickel-Ce0.6La0.4O2 (Ni-LDC) composite anode having a barrier layer of Ce0.6La0.4O2 (LDC) between the LSGM electrolyte and the Ni-LDC anode. Electrical performances of these cells were determined and the electrode polarization behavior as a function of cell current was modeled between 600 and 800 degrees C. (c) 2006 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.