Catalytic performance of non-platinum-based hybrid carbon hetero-structure for oxygen reduction and hydrogen oxidation reactions in proton exchange membrane fuel cell. (27th September 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Chandran, Priji; Ramaprabhu, Sundara
• Is Part Of: International journal of hydrogen energy. Volume 43:Number 39(2018)
• Page Start: 18477
• Page End: 18487
• Publication Date: 2018-09-27
• Subjects: PEMFC -- Carbon nanotubes -- Graphene -- HOR -- ORR -- Partially exfoliated carbon nanotubes; Hydrogen as fuel -- Periodicals; Hydrogène (Combustible) -- Périodiques; Hydrogen as fuel; Periodicals; 665.81
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ijhydene.2018.08.066
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0360-3199

Abstract

Abstract: The present work describes the potential of a hybrid carbon hetero-structure having the unique properties of one-dimensional carbon nanotubes and two-dimensional graphene as a catalyst support material for platinum-free electrocatalysts in polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) for hydrogen oxidation reaction (HOR) or oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). Partially exfoliated carbon nanotubes (PCNT), which have the synergistic effect of good electrical conductivity and high surface area, have been used as the support material for Pd3 Co alloy catalysts. This provides more active sites for the dispersion of catalyst particles along with quick electron transport through the carbon structure. This unique characteristic increases the catalytic activity of the electrocatalysts. The electrochemical half-cell studies confirm that, ORR on Pd3 Co/PCNT proceeds via a four-electron process. The single cell measurements were carried out by preparing a membrane electrode assembly (MEA) using Pd3 Co/PCNT at the anode, cathode separately as well as simultaneously at both the anode and cathode. A maximum power density of 327 mW cm −2, 240 mW cm −2 and 96 mW cm −2 is attained from the use of Pd3 Co/PCNT nanocomposite at anode, cathode and at both electrodes simultaneously in a PEMFC at 60 °C, respectively. Graphical abstract: Highlights: PCNT exhibits synergistic effect of good electronic conductivity and high surface area. High electrochemical surface area of Pd3 Co/PCNT for higher utilization of catalyst NPs. Pd3 Co/PCNT was used as anode, cathode and as both anode and cathode electrocatalyst. Pd3 Co/PCNT exhibits good activity towards HOR and ORR reaction.