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Researchers developed aligned carbon nanotubes modified with platinum nanoparticles to enhance the performance of proton exchange membrane fuel cells, achieving improved catalytic activity, device endurance, and reduced noble metal usage.

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What they did

System
MFC

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Abstract

The focus of this research lies on fundamental research to provide guidelines for the design of new nanocatalyst toward improvement of the performance of proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs). To achieve this overarching goal, several specific steps were taken with aims to: (1) provide guidelines for the design of new catalysts; (2) promote nanocatalyst applications towards alternative energy applications; and (3) integrate advanced instrumentation into nanocharacterization and fuel cell (FC) electrochemical behavior. In tandem with these goals, the cathode catalysts were extensively refined to improve the performance of PEMFCs and minimize noble metal usage. In this study, the major accomplishment was producing aligned carbon nanotubes (ACNTs), which were then modified by platinum (Pt) nanoparticles via a post-functionalization colloidal chemistry approach. The Pt-ACNTs demonstrated improved cathodic catalycity, by building better device endurance and decreased Pt loading. It was also determined that surface mechanical properties, such as elastic modulus and hardness were increased. Collectively, these enhancements provided an improved FC device. The electrochemical analyses indicated that the power density of the PEMFCs was increased to 900 mW/cm² and current density to 3000 mA/cm², respectively. The Pt loading was controlled at lower than 0.2 mg/cm² to decrease the manufacturing expenses.

Key findings

  • Improved cathodic catalycity in Pt-ACNTs
  • Increased surface mechanical properties (elastic modulus and hardness)
  • Enhanced fuel cell device performance

Keywords

Proton exchange membrane fuel cellSurface modificationCarbon nanotubeNanotechnologyNanomaterial-based catalystCathode

Identifiers

DOI
10.3390/en6126476
Journal
Energies
Year
2013