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A highly durable fuel cell electrocatalyst based on double-polymer-coated carbon nanotubes
Mohamed R Berber1,2, Inas H Hafez1,3, Tsuyohiko Fujigaya1,4
1International Institute for Carbon Neutral Energy Research (WPI-I2CNER), Kyushu University, 744 Motooka, Nishi-ku, Fukuoka 819-0395 (Japan).
Scientific Reports
|November 24, 2015
Summary
A new double-polymer-coated carbon nanotube electrocatalyst significantly enhances fuel cell (FC) durability and performance. This advanced material shows promise for next-generation polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs).
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Electrochemistry
- Chemical Engineering
Background:
- Commercialization of fuel cell (FC) technology requires highly durable and efficient electrocatalysts.
- Current electrocatalysts face challenges in long-term stability and performance under operational conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To design and fabricate a highly durable electrocatalyst for polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs).
- To evaluate the performance and durability of a novel double-polymer-coated carbon nanotube electrocatalyst.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of electrocatalyst using Pt-deposited polybenzimidazole-coated carbon nanotubes, further coated with Nafion.
- Testing of the electrocatalyst in a fuel cell setup under specific conditions (70°C, 50% RH, H2/air).
- Accelerated potential cycling to assess durability (500,000 cycles).
Main Results:
- Achieved a high FC performance with a power density of 375 mW/cm².
- Demonstrated remarkable durability with only a 5% loss in initial FC potential and 20% loss in maximum power density after 500,000 cycles.
- Outperformed membrane electrode assemblies using traditional carbon black support.
Conclusions:
- The double-polymer-coated carbon nanotube electrocatalyst offers superior performance and durability compared to conventional materials.
- This advanced electrocatalyst is a promising candidate for next-generation PEMFCs, addressing key commercialization challenges.
