Conformal Assembly of Platinum on Self-Standing Structured Cathodes for PEMFCs

Abstract

A self-standing cathode architecture for proton exchange membrane fuel cells was developed. A conformal, thin layer of platinum was electrodeposited on a self-standing carbon-fiber-based structured support in the form of an extended-surface particulate film. Abundant grain boundaries, large crystallite size, and minimized interparticle distance greatly influence the catalyst morphology and catalytic activity toward the oxygen reduction reaction. The macroporous network of the catalyst support contributes to reduced mass-transport-related losses and improved water management when implementing the electrode in the membrane electrode assembly of a single fuel cell. The synergetic effect of the conformal morphology of the catalyst along with macroporous support architecture led to enhanced catalyst layer durability on fuel cell accelerated stress testing, compared to that with a conventional carbon-supported platinum nanoparticles-based catalyst.