Evaluation of laser-induced carbons with concentric graphitic layers for highly durable and adaptable at low humidity. (8th October 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Choi, Indae
• Is Part Of: International journal of hydrogen energy. Volume 44:Number 48(2019)
• Page Start: 26589
• Page End: 26596
• Publication Date: 2019-10-08
• Subjects: Laser irradiation -- Graphitic layers -- Onion-like carbons -- Durability; Hydrogen as fuel -- Periodicals; Hydrogène (Combustible) -- Périodiques; Hydrogen as fuel; Periodicals; 665.81
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ijhydene.2019.08.129
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0360-3199

Abstract

Abstract: Laser-induced carbons, so-called onion-like carbon (OLC), were investigated for enhanced oxygen reduction reaction activity, excellent durability of catalysts on carbon supports, and adaptability at a low relative humidity (44% RH). OLC nanoparticles were obtained by laser irradiation of ethylene with different reaction positions. The residence time and energy distribution at a reaction zone lead to the formation of nano-carbons with graphitic shells. As a robust support compared to commercial carbon black (XC), the OLC nanoparticle consisting of concentric graphitic layers is fabricated and its structure with σ–π hybridizations helps strong interactions between Pt atoms and π–bond of OLC nanoparticles, preventing the surface migration of Pt atoms, resulting in enhanced durability in long-term operations. It leads that the downshift of Pt d-band center at Pt nanocatalysts on OLC shells structures reduces the adsorption strength of surface oxygen species, enhancing ORR activity. Compared to the Pt/XC, the performance of Pt/OLC nanocatalyst shows 1.27 times more active in low humidity conditions, and 1.36 times more active and durable after long-term operating in extreme conditions occurring carbon corrosion levels. These results exhibit that the Pt/OLC catalyst is expected to generate an incredible level of synergy for enhanced activity and durability. Graphical abstract: Image 1 Highlights: Laser-induced carbons with graphitic layers show high resistivity in PEMFCs. Onion-like carbons lead to well-dispersed noble materials on the carbon surfaces. Onion-like carbon supported nanocatalysts show enhanced durability and performance.