The composite cathodes La2NiO4+delta-La0.6Sr0.4Co0.2Fe0.8O3-delta were prepared for intermediate temperature solid oxide fuel cells. La2NiO4+delta and La0.6Sr0.4Co0.2Fe0.8O3-delta powders were synthesized successfully by glycine-nitrate process. The effect of composition on the electrochemical performance of the composite electrodes was studied by AC impedance spectroscopy and the optimal calcination temperature was determined when the electrode showed the minimum area specific resistance. The addition of La2NiO4+delta-La0.6Sr0.4Co0.2Fe0.8O3-delta to La2NiO4+delta electrode decreased the area specific resistance remarkably. The composite electrode with 30 wt% La2NiO4+delta-La0.6Sr0.4Co0.2Fe0.8O3-delta calcined at 1150 degrees C exhibited the lowest area specific resistance of 0.125 Omega cm(2), about 60% of the area specific resistance of La2NiO4+delta electrode at 700 degrees C in air. The composite electrode with 30 wt% La0.6Sr0.4Co0.2Fe0.8O3-delta can be a promising cathode material through the evaluation of electrical conductivity and thermal expansion behavior. (C) 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.