Catalyst and membrane technology for low temperature fuel cells

Abstract

Abstract: One of the most critical fuel cell components is the catalyst layer, where electrochemical reduction and oxidation of the reactants and fuels take place; kinetics and transport properties influence cell performance. Fundamentals of fuel cell catalysis are explained, concurrent reaction pathways of the methanol oxidation reaction are discussed and a variety of catalysts for applications in low temperature fuel cells is described. The chapter highlights the most common polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) anode and cathode catalysts, core shell particles, de-alloyed structures and platinum-free materials, reducing platinum content while ensuring electrochemical activity, concluding with a description of different catalyst supports. The role of direct methanol fuel cell (DMFC) bi-functional catalysts is explained and optimization strategies towards a reduction of the overall platinum content are presented.