Platinum Nanoparticle Decorated Expired Drug-Derived N-Doped Ketjenblack Carbon as Efficient Catalyst for PEM Fuel Cells

Abstract

Polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) remain unaffordable in part due to the prohibitive cost of Platinum (Pt) catalyst. To make PEMFCs affordable, Pt needs to be partly or completely removed. Along with the development of environmentally friendly technologies, reducing environmental pollution is also necessary for the well-being of our society. With the increasing use of pharmaceutical drugs, their disposal after expiry causes enormous environmental and aquatic pollution. To tackle this pollution, we have converted expired Calpol drugs into catalyst support (NKBC), which not only supports Pt nanoparticles but also assists in the activation of O2 and H2. Using the Pt-dispersed NKBC catalyst, a PEMFC was demonstrated, where peak power density and fuel cell performance was found to be much higher than Pt/C due to better Pt utilization. This study paves the way to controlling pollution by converting the pollutant into excellent catalyst support.