Performance of proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) was improved via amphiphilic functionalization of carbon nanotubes with platinum as cathode catalyst. The PEMFCs demonstrated enhanced power density (900 mW�cm-2) under lowered Pt loading (< 0.2 mg�cm2). This performance gain is attributed to greater accessibility to electrochemical active-sites, allowing generation of energy without an environmental burden. The physical modifications consist of the use of structured arrays of CNTs which improve gas channelling, minimise flooding and improve device operational performance. The chemical modifications relate to use of amphiphilic post-functionalization of the carbon nanotube(s) by platinum (Pt-CNT). This process gave greater access to electrochemical active-sites, which in turn enhanced the oxygen reduction reaction, improving the electrocatalytic activity at the cathode. Collectively, the power density of the device was improved at least three-fold under lowered Pt loading.

Build effective cathode catalyst to enhance fuel cell performance

245th National Meeting (2013)

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