Abstract

The use of Pt-based cathode catalyst materials hinders the widespread application of anion exchange membrane fuel cells (AEMFCs). Herein, we present a non-precious metal catalyst (NPMC) material based on pyrolysed Fe and Co co-doped electrospun carbon nanofibres (CNFs). The prepared materials are studied as oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER) catalysts in alkaline and acidic environments. High activity towards the ORR in alkaline solution indicated the suitability of the prepared NPMCs for the application at the AEMFC cathode. In the AEMFC test, the membrane-electrode assembly bearing a cathode with the nanofibre-based catalyst prepared with the ionic liquid (IL) (Fe/Co/IL–CNF–800b) showed the maximum power density (Pmax) of 195 mW cm−2, which is 78% of the Pmax obtained with a commercial Pt/C cathode catalyst. Such high ORR electrocatalytic activity was attributed to the unique CNF structure, high micro-mesoporosity, different nature of nitrogen species and metal-Nx active centres.

Full Text
Paper version not known

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.