A novel cathode architecture using Cu nanoneedle arrays as the cathode support for AAEMFC application. Issue 28 (5th July 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Jia, Jia; Yu, Hongmei; Gao, Xueqiang; Chi, Jun; Qin, Bowen; Song, Wei; Shao, Zhigang; Yi, Baolian
• Is Part Of: Journal of materials chemistry. Volume 5:Issue 28(2017)
• Page Start: 14794
• Page End: 14800
• Publication Date: 2017-07-05
• Subjects: Materials -- Research -- Periodicals; Chemistry, Analytic -- Periodicals; Environmental sciences -- Research -- Periodicals; 543.0284
• DOI: 10.1039/c7ta02437a
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2050-7488

Abstract

Abstract : A novel cathode architecture using vertically aligned Cu nanoneedle arrays (NNAs) as an ordered support for alkaline anion-exchange membrane fuel cell (AAEMFC) application is developed. Abstract : A novel cathode architecture using vertically aligned Cu nanoneedle arrays (NNAs) as an ordered support for alkaline anion-exchange membrane fuel cell (AAEMFC) application is developed. Cu NNAs are directly grown on a GDL via three steps of electrochemical reaction. After depositing a Pd layer on the surface of Cu by a pulse electrodeposition method to form Pd/CuNNAs, the cathode catalyst layer is formed. The AAEMFC prepared without alkaline ionomer in the cathode catalyst layer shows an enhanced performance with ultra-low Pd loading down to 47 μg cm −2, which is much higher than that of a conventional cathode electrode with the Pt loading of 100 μg cm −2 . This is the first report where three-dimensional Cu NNAs are applied as the cathode support in an AAEMFC, which is able to deliver a higher power density without an alkaline ionomer than conventional MEAs.