Improving Interlayer Interactions in Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell through Carbon Nanotube-Based Catalyst Design

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Electrochemistry
• Energy Conversion

Background:

• Proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) offer efficient, zero-emission energy but face challenges in catalyst layer design, durability, and cost.
• Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are explored as advanced materials to overcome these limitations in PEMFC technology.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent advancements in applying carbon nanotubes (CNTs) within PEMFCs.
• To highlight CNT integration strategies, including covalent and non-covalent modifications, and vertically aligned CNT structures (VACNTs).
• To discuss synergistic effects of CNTs with carbon black (CB) for improved conductivity and interlayer interactions.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of recent research on CNT applications in PEMFCs.
• Analysis of CNT integration at various levels of the membrane electrode assembly (MEA).
• Focus on vertically aligned carbon nanotube (VACNT) structures and CNT/carbon black blends.

Main Results:

• CNTs, particularly VACNTs, show potential to enhance electron and mass transport in PEMFCs.
• Covalent and non-covalent modification schemes offer different integration pathways for CNTs.
• Blending CNTs with carbon black can improve material conductivity and address interlayer issues.

Conclusions:

• CNTs offer significant promise for improving PEMFC performance and durability.
• Further research is needed to understand the comprehensive impact of CNT modifications on MEA operation.
• Strategic material design using CNTs can facilitate the commercialization of PEMFC technology.