Metal−Organic Framework CPO-27 Derivatives As Non-Precious Metal Catalyst for Anion Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell

Abstract

Fuel cell stands as an environmentally friendly technology harnessing the power of hydrogen to generate clean water. In the range of fuel cell types, the anion exchange membrane fuel cell (AEMFC) stands out, effectively converting chemical energy to electricity without relying on platinum catalyst. Nonetheless, platinum catalyst is still used in addressing the sluggishness of the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) during AEMFC operation. The scarcity and expense of platinum, however, hinder its widespread adoption. Furthermore, in the alkaline environment, platinum surface is covered with OH species, impeding active sites and diminishing electrochemical activity. Consequently, seeking an efficient, stable, and abundant platinum substitute is a primary target in the development of fuel cell.This study focuses on the development of the non-precious metal catalyst for the ORR in AEMFC. The catalyst, denoted as NiCo2-CPO-27/PCN, is derived from a carbon nanorod structure obtained from the metal-organic framework (CPO-27). Through the optimized process, the catalyst demonstrates the distinct carbon nanorod configuration. Additionally, the NiCo2-CPO-27/PCN catalyst exhibits enhanced ORR activity, achieving the electron transfer number of 3.99, which closely approaches the ideal four-electron transfer number. This improvement in activity is attributed to factors such as the specific structure, heteroatom contribution, and coordination arrangement of the catalyst.