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Selective Hydrogen Oxidation Catalyst for PEM Fuel Cells: Tungsten Cluster-Tuned Platinum Single Atoms
Xu Guo1,2, Ahui Hao1,2, Shuang Li1,2
1School of Materials Science and Engineering, Beihang University, No.37 Xueyuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100191, China.
Small (Weinheim an Der Bergstrasse, Germany)
|November 22, 2024
Summary
A new catalyst with platinum single atoms and tungsten nanoclusters on a carbon support enhances proton-exchange membrane fuel cells. This selective hydrogen oxidation catalyst offers superior performance and durability against reverse currents.
Area of Science:
- Electrochemistry
- Materials Science
- Catalysis
Background:
- Proton-exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) require selective hydrogen oxidation reaction (HOR) electrocatalysts to prevent degradation from reverse currents.
- Existing catalysts face challenges with stability and efficiency, particularly when exposed to oxygen leaks.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a highly active and selective low-platinum (Pt) HOR electrocatalyst for improved PEMFC performance and durability.
- To investigate the role of tungsten nanoclusters (W_NC) in tuning Pt single-atom (Pt_1) activity and selectivity.
Main Methods:
- Synthesis of a novel catalyst comprising Pt single atoms (Pt_1) on tungsten nanoclusters (W_NC) embedded within an accordion-like nitrogen-doped carbon support (ANC).
- Utilized experimental characterization and theoretical calculations to analyze catalyst structure and performance.
- Evaluated HOR activity, selectivity, and durability under simulated reverse current conditions.
Main Results:
- The W_NC effectively optimized hydrogen adsorption on Pt_1, enhancing HOR catalysis.
- The catalyst demonstrated weakened oxygen adsorption, improving resistance to oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) catalysis and reverse current degradation.
- Achieved ultralow HOR overpotential and a mass activity 13 times greater than commercial Pt/C.
Conclusions:
- The Pt_1/W_NC-ANC catalyst exhibits exceptional activity, selectivity, and stability for HOR catalysis in PEMFCs.
- This approach offers a promising strategy for developing cost-effective, durable, and robust fuel cell technologies.
- The findings pave the way for advanced electrocatalyst design for clean energy applications.
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