Ni-LnO(x) (Ln = Dy, Ho, Er, Yb and Tb) cermets are investigated as the anodes of intermediate-temperature solid oxide fuel cells using ceria-based electrolyte to seek insights into the properties and electrocatalytic activity of these lanthanide oxides, whose oxygen ion conductivity is negligible. They have displayed similar electrochemical activity which is comparable to, if not higher than, those of the commonly Ni-doped ceria cermets. The anode performance has been found to depend strongly on cermet composition and porosity. Temperature programmed reduction study and EIS analysis under different hydrogen partial pressure suggest that the catalytic activity of the Ni-LnO(x) cermets might be originated from the hydrogen adsorption ability on the LnO(x) surface, promoting hydrogen spillover process, and consequently enhancing the electrochemical oxidation of the fuel. (C) 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights