Durability challenges and perspective in the development of PGM-free electrocatalysts for the oxygen reduction reaction

By Ulises Martinez, S. Komini Babu, Edward F. Holby, P. Zelenay. Current Opinion in Electrochemistry, 2018

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Summary Significant advancement in the development of highly active platinum group metal-free (PGM-free) electrocatalysts is giving rise to the possibility of a low-cost replacement for Pt electrocatalysts in polymer electrolyte fuel cells. However, before the successful implementation of PGM-free electrocatalysts, the challenge of long-term stability under fuel cell operating conditions needs to be addressed. In this opinion, the current status of PGM-free electrocatalyst performance and durability is reviewed. A perspective on the route for the study of degradation mechanisms in PGM-free electrocatalysts in both half-cell and membrane electrode assembly environments is presented. The analysis of proposed degradation mechanisms suggests classification into two relevant length scales: atomic scale and macro/mesoscale. Lastly, an overview of different characterization techniques (both experimental and theoretical) for studying different possible degradation mechanisms is outlined. Directly addressing the underlying mechanisms leading to loss of activity in PGM-free electrocatalysts will provide valuable insight necessary for the development of next-generation materials with improved durability capable of competing with Pt-based counterparts.

Subfields: Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Renewable Energy, Sustainability and the Environment

View Paper: https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/75e7141e1ff15a72aec04b2d5bda109677d80be4

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In Electrical and Electronic Engineering

  1. Yanghua He
  2. Mengjie Chen
  3. J. Spendelow
  4. Gang Wu

In Renewable Energy, Sustainability and the Environment

  1. Yanghua He
  2. Mengjie Chen
  3. J. Spendelow
  4. Gang Wu

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