Abstract
In this paper we present a study on stable radicals and short-lived species generated in anion-exchange membrane (AEM) fuel cells (AEMFCs) during operation. The in situ measurements are performed with a micro-AEMFC inserted into a resonator of an electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectrometer, which enables separate monitoring of radicals formed on the anode and cathode sides. The creation of radicals is monitored by the EPR spin trapping technique. For the first time, we clearly show the formation and presence of stable radicals in AEMs during and after long-term AEMFC operation. The main detected adducts during the operation of the micro-AEMFC are DMPO-OOH and DMPO-OH on the cathode side, and DMPO-H on the anode side. These results indicate that oxidative degradation involving radical reactions has to be taken into account when stability of AEMFCs is investigated.
Highlights
In this paper we present a study on stable radicals and short-lived species generated in anion-exchange membrane (AEM) fuel cells (AEMFCs) during operation
I n the recent decade, a significant amount of research has focused on the development of anion-exchange membrane (AEM) fuel cells (AEMFCs), as this technology exhibits faster oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) kinetics in the alkaline environment of the cell.[1−6] application of nonnoble metal electrocatalysts, for example, based on transitionmetal oxides of spinel structure, silver, and nickel[7−14] as well as of low cost hydrocarbon-based membranes,[15−20] is possible and, contributes directly to lower device costs and environmental benefits.[7,21,22]
For this technology to become a serious alternative to the current mainstream acidic fuel cell systems, it should overcome current limitations of performance stability.[23−29] It has been recently shown that the chemical stability of the membrane during fuel cell operation in alkaline environments is a critical limitation of the AEMFC technology.[30]
Summary
Varcoe for the generous supply of the LDPE-based membrane
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