Probing rough composite surfaces with atomic force microscopy: Nafion ionomer in fuel cell electrodes

Abstract

Optimizing Nafion loading and surface distribution of Nafion in the fuel cell electrode is critical for the fuel cell performance for minimizing ohmic and mass transport overpotentials. An atomic force microscopy method is used here for a qualitative and a quantitative discrimination between the ionomer and Pt in the fuel cell electrode. This work describes a methodology for the analysis of complex composite surface of fuel cell electrodes and discrimination of different materials on the electrode surface. The reported methodology could be extended for imaging composite rough surfaces when contrast is based on mechanical properties, adhesion and electrical conductivity.