(294b) Non-Pt Cathode Catalysts for Anion Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells

Abstract:
 Anion exchange membrane fuel cells (AEMFC) have
recently attracted enormous attention, due to their high energy
conversion efficiency, low emission and low cost.  Non-Pt catalysts can be
used in AEMFC cathode due to improved kinetics (high activity) and less
corrosive environment (long term stability). We recently developed a wet
chemical method to prepare Pd, Ag and their alloy nanostructures for AEMFC
cathode. The Ag particle size can be controlled within 2-9 nm. The RRDE test
shows that oxygen reduction on Ag catalyst in liquid alkaline electrolyte
undergoes a 4-electron-transfer pathway. In a single AEMFC test, the Ag/C-based
AEMFC has demonstrated a peak power density of
190 mW/cm² at 80^oC,
2 atm, which is just
slightly lower than the Pt/C-based AEMFC (250 mW/cm²). The V-type durability tests show that the
Ag/C-based AEMFC is more stable than the Pt/C-based AEMFC. Our latest progress
in this area will also be presented.