GDL-Integrated Electrodes with Ir-Based Electrocatalysts for Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Water Electrolysis

Abstract

Some metal oxides are stable under strongly acidic conditions of Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Water Electrolysis (PEMWE) anodes. Such oxides may be useful as catalyst support materials to reduce noble metal catalyst loading (such as iridium) and to improve electrode durability. In this study, the titanium-based porous sheet acting as the Gas Diffusion Layer (GDL), on which its surface is naturally oxidized, is used as the support material. GDL-integrated electrodes with Ir-based electrocatalysts are developed. Two types of GDL-integrated electrodes were prepared with Ir-based electrocatalysts deposited by the Arc Plasma Deposition (APD) or the evaporation-to-dryness process. A higher Oxygen Evolution Reaction (OER) activity was obtained for electrodes prepared by the APD compared to those prepared by the evaporation-to-dryness process. Electrochemical activity and durability of the Ir-based electrocatalysts on the porous Ti sheet in MEAs are characterized and discussed.