Breitkopf R., Hwang J., Maniei F., Hunt A.
MicroCoating Technologies, US
Keywords: electrocatalyst, fuel cell, nanocomposite
PEM Fuel cells have enormous promise as the power source for next generation vehicles. Several missing pieces exist with state of the art technology that prevent immediate implementation due to cost constraints. One large cost contributor is the generation of pure hydrogen which has prompted exploration into reformate fuels. The major problem in reformate fuel systems is power loss due to carbon monoxide poisoning of the platinum surface, hence the interest in alternative Pt-Ru alloy based catalysts (1). Since our CCVD process can directly make both the electrocatalyst and electrode on gas-diffusion layer or membrane substrate in one step, we obviate the need to use catalyst ink and coat electrodes. This reduction in process steps to form the electrocatalyst layer can greatly reduce the processing costs and increase the production throughput with our simple, low-cost CCVD process. We have demonstrated the ability to make Pt and Ru containing electrocatalyst layers using our CCVD technology that has similar performance to commercially available Etek PtRu materials. Half cell slow sweep ignition potential data for samples on gas diffusion electrode substrates demonstrate improvements in CO tolerance when compared to commercial Etek materials.
Journal: TechConnect Briefs
Volume: 3, Technical Proceedings of the 2003 Nanotechnology Conference and Trade Show, Volume 3
Published: February 23, 2003
Pages: 490 - 492
Industry sectors: Advanced Materials & Manufacturing | Energy & Sustainability
Topic: Fuel cells & Hydrogen
ISBN: 0-9728422-2-5