Simulation of novel Pt-M nanocatalysis for proton exchange membrane fuel cells

Abstract

To enhance proton exchange membrane fuel cells, an ultra-thin cathode catalytic layer based on PtPdCu nanowires is analyzed. The purpose is to optimize fuel cell performance by analyzing key parameters of the catalytic layer in detail, such as thickness and porosity. Numerical simulation methods are used to simulate the structural parameters and operating conditions of the catalytic layer using COMSOL Multi-physics software. The paper focuses on analyzing the changes in the transport resistance of electrons, protons, and oxygen within the catalytic layer, as well as the measurement method of the porosity of the catalytic layer. The results demonstrated that when the catalytic layer thickness reached 450 nm, the power density of proton exchange membrane fuel cells reached its peak, which was 801 and 996 mW/cm2, respectively. In catalytic layers with a thickness of less than 1 µm, the transfer efficiency of oxygen and electrons was higher. When the thickness exceeds 5 µm, oxygen transmission was hindered, and the proton transfer path becomes longer. The average porosity was 44.02%, indicating a high structural consistency of the catalytic layer. In terms of redox reaction performance, the area specific activity of PtPdCuNWs was four times that of commercial Pt/C. This study emphasizes the importance of the ultra-thin cathode catalytic layer in optimizing the performance of proton exchange membrane fuel cells and provides insights into improving catalytic efficiency and overall fuel cell performance through micro-structure design.