Nanostructured Thin Film Electrocatalysts for PEM Fuel Cells - A Tutorial on the Fundamental Characteristics and Practical Properties of NSTF Catalysts

Abstract

This tutorial reviews the key aspects and literature to date around the nanostructured thin film (NSTF) electrocatalyst technology platform for PEM fuel cells and electrolyzers. The NSTF technology is to date the only practical example of an extended surface area catalyst shown to effectively address several of the performance, cost and durability barriers facing cathode and anode catalysts for fuel cell vehicles. The unique physical characteristics of these ultra-thin, low Pt-loaded electrodes also require alternative solutions for water management and impurity tolerance. We present an overview of the NSTF electrocatalysts' four primary differentiating features, to show how their material and basic geometric and material characteristics translate to functional performance factors. We conclude by briefly recounting the historical origins of the NSTF material with the recommendation that the field of ordered organic molecular solids represents a large opportunity for developing tailored support materials for heterogeneous catalysis.