Oxygen Reduction at PtNi Alloys in Direct Methanol Fuel Cells-Electrode Development and Characterization

Catalyst layers made from novel catalysts must be fabricated in a way that the catalyst can function to its full potential. To characterize a PtNi alloy catalyst for use in the cathode of Direct Methanol Fuel Cells (DMFCs), the effects of the manufacturing technique, ink composition, layer composition, and catalyst loading were here studied in order to reach the maximum performance potential of the catalyst. For a more detailed understanding, beyond the DMFCs performance measurements, we look at the electrochemically active surface area of the catalyst and charge-transfer resistance, as well as the layer quality and ink properties, and relate them to the aspects stated above. As a result, we make catalyst layers with optimized parameters by ultrasonic spray coating that shows the high performance of the catalyst even when containing less Pt than commercial products. Using this approach, we can adjust the catalyst layers to the requirements of DMFCs, hydrogen fuel cells, or polymer electrolyte membrane electrolysis cells.

Automated summary

In order to maximize the performance potential of a PtNi alloy catalyst in the cathode of DMFCs, the effects of various factors such as manufacturing technique, ink composition, layer composition, and catalyst loading were studied. Detailed analysis was done on the electrochemically active surface area, charge-transfer resistance, layer quality, and ink properties, and their relationship with the mentioned factors was examined. Optimized catalyst layers were successfully fabricated using ultrasonic spray coating, which showed high performance even with lower Pt content than commercial products. This approach allows for tailoring of catalyst layers according to the requirements of DMFCs, hydrogen fuel cells, or polymer electrolyte membrane electrolysis cells.