Hydrogen Storage Alloy and Carbon Nanotubes Mixed Catalyst in a Direct Borohydride Fuel Cell

Abstract

In this study, carbon nanotubes (CNTs) were mixed with AB 5 -type hydrogen storage alloy (HSA), as catalyst for an anode in a direct borohydride fuel cell (DBFC). As comparision, a series of traditional carbon materials, such as acetylene black, Vulcan XC-72R, and super activated carbon (SAC) were also employed. Electrochemical measurements showed that the electrocatalytic activity of HSA was improved greatly by CNTs. The currentdensity of the DBFC employing the HSA/CNTs catalytic anode could reach 1550 mA-cm −2 (at −0.6 V vs the Hg/HgO electrode) and the maximum power density of 65 mW·cm −2 for this cell could be achieved at room temperature. Furthermore, the life time test lasting for 60 h showed that the cell displayed a good stability.