Advancing direct ethanol fuel cell operation at intermediate temperature by combining Nafion-hybrid electrolyte and well-alloyed PtSn/C electrocatalyst. (6th April 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Dresch, Mauro André; Matos, Bruno Ribeiro; Godoi, Denis Ricardo Martins; Linardi, Marcelo; Fonseca, Fabio Coral; Villullas, Hebe de las Mercedes; Santiago, Elisabete Inacio
• Is Part Of: International journal of hydrogen energy. Volume 46:Number 24(2021)
• Page Start: 13252
• Page End: 13264
• Publication Date: 2021-04-06
• Subjects: Direct ethanol fuel cell -- IT-DEFC -- PtSn/C -- Nafion-SiO2 -- Hybrid electrolyte; Hydrogen as fuel -- Periodicals; Hydrogène (Combustible) -- Périodiques; Hydrogen as fuel; Periodicals; 665.81
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ijhydene.2021.01.123
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0360-3199

Abstract

Abstract: The advancement of direct ethanol fuel cell (DEFC) represents a real challenge to electrochemical science because ethanol changes significantly the triple phase boundary properties such as the redox reactions and the proton transport. Ethanol molecules promote poor fuel cell performance due to their slow oxidation rate, reduction of the proton transport due to high affinity of ethanol by the membrane, and due to mixed potential when the ethanol molecules reach the cathode by crossover. DEFC performance has been improved by advances in the membranes, e.g., low ethanol crossover polymer composites, or electrode materials, e.g., binary/ternary catalysts. Herein, high temperature (130 °C) DEFC tests were systematically investigated by using optimized electrode and electrolyte materials: Nafion-SiO2 hybrid electrolyte and well-alloyed PtSn/C electrocatalyst. By optimizing both the electrode and the electrolyte in conjunction, DEFCs operating at 130 °C exhibited a threefold increase on performance as compared to standard commercially available materials. Highlights: Nafion-SiO2 hybrids show improved hygroscopic properties and thermal stability. Hybrid with 6.5 wt% SiO2 presents better proton conductivity than unmodified Nafion. Improved performance DEFC prototypes with Nafion-SiO2 hybrid electrolytes. Substantial differences in DEFC performances depending on the PtSn/C anode catalysts. 112 mA cm −2 power density of 130 °C for 6.5 wt% SiO2 hybrid and homemade PtSn/C.