Noble Metal-Based Catalysts with Core-Shell Structure for Oxygen Reduction Reaction: Progress and Prospective

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Electrochemistry
• Catalysis

Background:

• Growing environmental concerns and fossil fuel depletion drive demand for clean energy solutions like fuel cells.
• Proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) are a key clean energy technology.
• Oxygen reduction reactions (ORRs) are critical for PEMFC efficiency.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent advancements in noble metal-based core-shell catalysts for ORRs in PEMFCs.
• To highlight factors influencing catalyst performance and discuss challenges.
• To propose future research directions for commercialization.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of recent progress in noble metal-based core-shell catalysts.
• Summary of novel testing methods, performance evaluation parameters, and research approaches for ORRs.
• Analysis of the impact of synthesis methods, temperature, doping, and shell structure on ORR performance.

Main Results:

• Core-shell catalyst design significantly impacts ORR performance in PEMFCs.
• Preparation methods, temperature, doping elements, and shell structure are key influencing factors.
• Challenges include mass production difficulties and high costs of noble metal catalysts.

Conclusions:

• Noble metal-based core-shell catalysts offer potential for efficient ORRs in PEMFCs.
• Overcoming mass production and cost barriers is crucial for commercial viability.
• Further research should prioritize simple synthesis and low-cost, high-performance catalyst development.